Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding statutory sick pay in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41145/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Government is considering the introduction of a scheme of statutory sick pay at this time for a number of compelling reasons – firstly as a measure to help in addressing the 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.

In considering the matter, 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.

There is a 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 a scheme would be enforced and policed – and these will be discussed in the course of the wider process associated with the preparation of Budget 2013. The views of stakeholder groups, including small and medium-sized business owners, will be taken into account in that process.