Extension of sick pay term criticised

Employers’ groups have criticised the Government’s decision to extend the eligibility for sick pay claiming it will place additional financial pressure on many Irish businesses.

The change will result in workers only becoming eligible for illness benefit after being sick for six days compared to the current entitlement after three days.

The measure, which comes into effect from Jan 1, is expected to achieve annual savings of €22m. ISME, the organisation representing small and medium enterprises, said the extension of the eligibility criteria for sick pay would put extra pressure on already struggling small firms and their staff.