Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 June 2023
598. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to provide an update on the drafting of regulations to give effect to the provisions of the Work-life Balance (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31105/23]
View answerThe Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 was signed into law by the President on 4th April. Its aim is to employees to achieve a better balance between their home lives and work lives.
The Deputy may be aware that yesterday, June 27th, I announced that the first sections of the Act will be commenced on July 3rd 2023, namely Part 1; Part 2, other than sections 7, 8, 12 (a), 13 and 14; and Sections 32 to 39.
From that date the entitlement of workers to breastfeeding breaks will be expanded from the current period of six months up to two years.
Additionally, from July 3rd parents and carers will be entitled to a new right to unpaid leave for medical purposes.
Section 7 of the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 introduces 5 days paid domestic violence leave.
Under section 7, regulations are to be made setting out a rate of pay for the leave. In line with the provisions of the Act, I have written to employers representatives, employees representatives and domestic violence support providers seeking their views on the rate of pay. Work on the regulations is ongoing and I intend to publish the regulations and commence the relevant provisions in the Autumn.
Alongside work on the regulations, my Department has contracted Women's Aid to develop supports for employers to develop their own workplace policies for domestic violence. These supports will be available for the commencement of the leave.
The right to request flexible working for parents and carers will be commenced following the preparation of a Code of Practice by the Workplace Relations Commission under Part 4.
Commencement of Part 3 and Part 4 are for the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
