Ms Bríd McKeown:

I agree with what has been said. The lack of sick pay during such a crucial time contributes to such decisions. If one is in low wage employment and work in an intimidating environment where one is threatened during that time then one could act to maintain one's job in the absence of sick pay. To be honest, we have not heard a huge number of these reports. Many workers were just very concerned for their own safety, the safety of their colleagues and the safety of their own families, which was paramount for people.