Matt Shanahan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have some sympathy with what is trying to be done in the Bill. This speaks to low-paid workers, and Deputy O Ríordáin has highlighted the fact there is no opportunity for them. They have to pay to get medical certificates. This is a problem. On the other hand, we have the problem with the employer. Small employers have to pay 70% of the rate and probably have to find replacements. This speaks to the need to find a way to shore up the costs of the scheme, particularly for SMEs. It also relates to some large employers that use low-cost pay. I am not sure what we can do about that. It is more to do with employee law. This speaks to trying to find some way to mitigate costs where employers would be happier to pay if they were getting a subvention. They would be happier to pay lower-cost workers a higher amount for being sick. It might also cover their costs. Again, this highlights the need for a review of where the Bill is going.