Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 October 2012
304. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on putting additional costs on employers by way of making them pay for statutory sick pay in view of the damage that this could cause to employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46385/12]
View answerThe Government is considering the introduction of a scheme of statutory sick pay at this time for a number of compelling reasons – as a measure to help in addressing the deficit in the social insurance fund; as a measure to limit progression from short-term illness to long-term illness or disability; and to bring Ireland into line with practice in other countries in this area. There is a range of complex issues that need to be addressed before any decision could be taken by Government on the possible introduction of such a scheme – the extent of coverage; the rate of payment; possible compensatory mechanisms for employers where appropriate and how a scheme would be enforced and policed. I am acutely conscious of the pressures facing employers in the current economic climate and I can assure the Deputy that their views - and the views of all stakeholder groups - will be taken into account in considering the matter.
