The Sick Leave Bill 2022 (the “Bill”), which provides for a statutory sick pay scheme for the first time in Ireland for all employees in both the public and private sector, was passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas on 13 July 2022.
The Bill has now proceeded to the President to be signed and enacted.
Sick Leave Bill Update
Under Irish law, an employer is not obliged to continue paying an absent employee on the grounds of illness. When enacted, the Act will entitle employees to paid statutory sick leave for up to 3 days per year at a payment rate of 70% of their normal wages (up to a maximum of €110 per day). The paid statutory sick leave period will increase to five days in 2024, seven days in 2025, and 10 days in 2026. We previously reviewed the objectives of the Bill here.
It is anticipated that the Bill will be signed into law shortly. Businesses and organisations are advised to put in place a sick pay policy, if not yet implemented, or align current employee handbooks and/or policies accordingly.
Once enacted, it remains to be seen whether the Act will come into effect immediately or later.
How Can We Help You?
For more information on employment related matters please contact Catherine O’Flynn or your usual William Fry contact.
See Sick Leave Bill 2022 here.
