Consequences for neglecting equality planning

If an employer neglects the equality plan, the Ombudsman for Equality must strive to ensure, through instructions and advice, that the employer makes the equality plan. If the employer still neglects their responsibility to draft an equality plan in spite of instructions and advice, the Ombudsman can set a reasonable deadline by which the obligation must be fulfilled.

If the plan is not drafted by the deadline, the Ombudsman can take the matter to the National Non-Discrimination and Equality Tribunal. The Tribunal can impose an obligation on the employer to prepare an equality plan within a defined period, under threat of a fine if necessary. If the employer still neglects the equality plan, the board will enforce the fine.