By Staff Reporter

The Minister of State for Integration has praised the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB) for its efforts as an inclusive place of learning.


Minister David Stanton was speaking at an event to mark ITB’s signing of the Diversity Charter Ireland, a public statement of their commitment to improve equality and diversity.


“In order to ensure a society that is fair for everyone, we need to go beyond the minimum standards provided for through legislation, and embrace diversity by enabling a broad range of people with varied talents and experiences to contribute to their fullest. This is the core value of this charter,” said the minister.


“While diversity must be celebrated, we also need policies and procedures in place to ensure all staff and students are valued, respected and treated fairly irrespective of their age, gender, nationality, ethnicity, ability, sexual orientation, religion or any other personal characteristics.”


ITB president Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan encouraged staff and students alike to join in supporting the charter as the institute “strives to become part of a technological university, with a focus on transformation by 2019.”


Dr O’Callaghan added: “By signing the Diversity Charter Ireland, ITB can share and learn from other members to continue to improve diversity and equality in the workplace, to create a culture that promotes respect for others, and ultimately, to further prepare our students for working in a global, and increasingly diverse world.”


ITB says its student population includes 55 different nationalities.