Promoting equality
New chair of Equality Budget Advisory Group announced
A group that helps ensure equality and human rights are considered when budgetary decisions are made, has appointed an external Chair for the first time.
Dr Angela O'Hagan will chair the Equality Budget Advisory Group (EBAG), which helps to shape the Scottish Government's approach to the budget.
Dr O'Hagan, from Glasgow Caledonian University, has been a member of EBAG since its inception and is highly experienced and respected for her research and teaching on equalities and public policy.
Announcing the appointment while attending the International Congress of Parliamentary Women's Caucuses in Dublin, Equalities Minister Christina McKelvie said:
"Our vision for an equal Scotland is key to how we meet the challenges and seize the opportunities that will allow our economy and our country to thrive.
"I am proud of the work done so far to take forward Equality Budgeting in Scotland. Given the new budgeting powers being exercised by the Scottish Government, the importance of this work will only increase. I would like to offer my gratitude to the members of EBAG for their ongoing commitment and contributions to this project.
"The appointment of an external chair shows our serious commitment to equality. Dr O'Hagan will bring extensive experience and expertise regarding social policy and its implications for equality. I am sure she will make an excellent chair."
Dr O'Hagan said:
"In taking on this challenging role I am clear that there are many pressures on the Scottish budget and its process. There is a way to go to align equality analysis, budget process, and political priorities and processes.
"It is clear that there is significant political will to build on steps to date in Scotland seeking to integrate equality analysis in the Scottish budget process. There is also considerable technical expertise in the membership of EBAG and wider stakeholders and I look forward to continuing to work with them."
Background
The full remit and membership of the group can be found online.
The Equality Budget Advisory Group (EBAG) is a non-statutory advisory group
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