Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding sick pay for nursing home staff [43855/12]

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 enterprises in the health care sector where particular issues arise associated with the replacement of staff who are absent on sick leave, will be taken into account in that process.