Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection her views on a matter (details supplied) regarding sick pay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38975/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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There are a number of compelling reasons why the Government is considering the introduction of a scheme of statutory sick pay at this time – firstly, as a measure to help in addressing the growing deficit in the social Insurance Fund; secondly, as a measure to limit progression from short-term illness to long-term illness or disability; and thirdly, to bring Ireland into line with practices in other countries in this area. However, I am acutely conscious of the pressures facing employers in the current economic climate, and in particular, the pressures facing smaller and medium-sized enterprises, including crèche owners.

I can assure the House that the range of complex issues that need to be addressed before any decision could be taken by Government on the possible introduction of such a scheme – the extent of coverage; the rate of payment; possible compensation mechanisms for employers where appropriate and how the scheme would be enforced and policed – will be discussed in the course of the wider process associated with the preparation of Budget 2013, and the views of stakeholder groups, including small- and medium-size business owners, will be taken into account in that process.