RCSI commissioned gender pay gap report

Findings from a gender pay gap audit at RCSI will be published this year, a College spokesperson has told the Medical Independent (MI).

According to the RCSI’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Annual Report 2017-2018, the College contracted KPMG in February 2018 to undertake a preliminary gender pay gap audit of academic staff.

Asked if results could be shared from this preliminary audit, a College spokesperson told MI “the report on these findings will be published in 2020”.

The annual report made reference to carrying out a wider survey, subject to the introduction of a law requiring publication of gender pay gap information, which is still proceeding through the Oireachtas.

According to the report, RCSI introduced a policy in January 2018 to ensure its committees, panels and decision-making bodies include a minimum of 40 per cent male or female representation.

 “Significant progress has been made towards achieving this target and an update will be included in the 18/19 RCSI Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Annual Report,” said RCSI’s spokesperson.

In recent years, RCSI has introduced a number of new policies, including a dedicated equality, diversity and inclusion policy and a gender identity and expression policy.

The purpose of the latter policy is to “provide information and guidance to staff and managers and to ensure staff and students feel supported at RCSI and that transphobia is prevented, while ensuring RCSI remains compliant with legislation”.

To date, one staff member has successfully transitioned at work, according to the report.

By April 2018, gender-neutral bathrooms (single-stall cubicles) were identified and signage was installed in 27 locations across RCSI’s St Stephen’s Green, Beaumont and Sandyford campuses. Consideration for gender-neutral facilities has also been incorporated into planning for future building works.