Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
36. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the start date for the sick pay scheme; and the date on which it is proposed to increase cover from the current three days. [40973/22]
View answerThe Sick Leave Act 2022 was enacted on 20th July. The Act is intended to provide a level of protection to employees who do not currently have employer-paid sick pay schemes, many of whom are low-paid and cannot afford to miss work. This is a progressive Act and will ensure that all employees are better protected and will have financial support from day one of a medically certified absence.
As a starting point, this scheme will cover the three waiting days before eligibility for Illness Benefit from the State.
I have been considering the detailed issues surrounding implementation of the statutory sick pay system, and will shortly decide on the exact date for introduction of this new benefit.
