Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I can be accused of many things but I am happy to answer anything anyone poses. I have no control over the questions that come in. I will go on to answer the first question that is tabled to me.

The implementation of the new single sick leave scheme for the public service generally will commence next month. The effective date for the new scheme will be 31 March 2014. The scheme is being introduced through ministerial regulations which are provided for in the recently enacted Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) (Amendment) Act 2013. The drafting of these regulations has been a priority for my Department working closely with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel since the relevant legislation was enacted at the end of last year. The regulations are at an advanced stage of preparation. I spoke to the Attorney General about them. They will be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas as soon as possible. Preparations are also at an advanced stage to ensure an effective roll-out of the new sick leave scheme once the regulations come into effect.

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