Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
1275. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the employment protections being considered or in place to ensure security and protection of employment in the public and private sectors if employees cannot return to work due to no childcare being available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6658/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra‘The Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business’ sets out how the Covid-19 restrictions will gradually be lifted. As different parts of the economy open at different times, the fact that schools and creches have not yet re-opened may cause some obstacles for workers with childcare responsibilities. Some workers will be able to manage this with their partner and extended family, whereas others will not.
The Government has requested employers to be as flexible as possible in allowing staff time off to look after their children or other members of their families. Just some of the flexible options to be considered include -
- Offering paid compassionate leave,
- Allowing employees to work from home,
- Altering shifts, so that employees can coordinate caring between themselves and partners, or another person,
- Allowing employees to rearrange holidays,
- Allowing employees to take paid time off that can be worked back at a later time etc.
I would encourage any employees affected by the lack of childcare to engage with their employer in the first instance with a view to exploring all options available to enable them to return to work. I would encourage all employers to be as flexible and supportive as possible in the circumstances with a view to maintaining good employment relationships over the long term.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
