Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I accept that is how the Deputy feels. Most legislation in this space, in terms of workers' rights or entitlements, here or across Europe allows time for a relationship to develop and does not automatically kick in on day one. Again, the employer will pay for this sick leave. It is important to recognise that a relationship of some sort of employment would be necessary before these entitlements would kick in and we suggest 13 weeks. Originally, the time was around six months but after the consultation, in conjunction with the members, and pre-legislative scrutiny done by the committee, the period was reduced to 13 weeks. In other legislation, the time is generally six months plus. We have made allowances and gone further than would be the norm in Ireland and across Europe, which I hope members accept. Again, we must strike the right balance and I hope people accept that.