The Inquiry took place between January and July 2009 and focused on the under-representation of ethnic minorities across the construction industry (the Industry).
Through extensive consultation with stakeholders and people working in the Industry, we were able to provide evidence which showed that the fragmented nature of the Industry is a barrier to a unified Industry approach to diversity. The results of this process were pulled together in our Inquiry report that made 31 broad-based recommendations for key issues to be addressed to improve the representation of ethnic minorities.
The Inquiry did not reach agreement between the Commission and the Industry on recommendations and potential actions, so we commenced on follow-up activities, including discussions with Industry stakeholders to create an Action Plan for Industry leaders to further develop their thinking and help them address the issues faced by their company and by the Industry as a whole. The objective is to increase the number of employment opportunities for under-represented groups and diversify the supply chain in procurement.
The Commission’s aim now will be to help dispel the belief that good equality practice is contradictory to business success and we will seek to use our regulatory powers to support change within the Industry.