The ‘Achieving Equality at Work: Promoting Socio-Economic Equality in Employment’ conference is focusing on how socio-economic equality in accessing and progressing in work can be promoted.

Public and private employers and employees, civil society organisations and rights-holder groups, trade unions, policy-makers and researchers are among those taking part to discuss how to promote more inclusive workplaces, free from discrimination.

It is taking place after the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission this week published a policy paper calling for legislation adding socio-economic status as a ground of discrimination.

Commission director Deirdre Malone said: “When people are forced to live in consistent poverty, sometimes for generations, their ability to exercise all other human rights is significantly eroded.

“Lone parents, people with disabilities, Traveller and Roma, people from other ethnic minority or immigrant backgrounds, and other vulnerable groups all experience unique barriers to employment.

“All of us have our part to play in promoting socio-economic equality in employment. We need to consider the policies and supports required to lessen the barriers and discriminations faced by many as they navigate the world of work.”