Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 106: To ask the Minister for Social Protection her views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding a statutory sick pay scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20956/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The question of introducing a scheme of statutory sick pay, whereby employers would directly meet the costs of sick absence for an initial period of illness, is being considered in the context of the need to reform the social welfare system to bring it into line with practices in other countries in this area; the need to address the deficit in the social insurance fund; the need to limit progression from short-term illness to long-term illness or disability; and in the wider context of enhancing the health of the workforce and addressing levels of absenteeism. No decisions have yet been taken by Government on the introduction of a statutory sick pay scheme. Before any decisions can be taken, there are a range of complex issues which need to be examined in detail. In this regard, I hosted a consultative seminar on the feasibility and implications of introducing a scheme of statutory sick pay on 20 February 2012. This seminar was attended by a broad range of key stakeholders and afforded an initial opportunity to discuss the complex issues involved. The issues raised in the correspondence referred to the Deputy were amongst the matters addressed. Further consultations will be held with key stakeholders in order to further develop the debate on these issues.