Government’s Sick Pay Delay Shortchanges Low-Paid Workers
Government’s Sick Pay Delay Shortchanges Low-Paid Workers - The Labour Party
- Government stalls increase in paid sick leave
Labour’s Workers’ Rights spokesperson, Senator Nessa Cosgrove, has criticised the Government’s decision to stall plans to increase paid sick leave for workers from five days to seven. This proposal, set to be discussed in Cabinet today, represents a significant setback for workers’ rights across Ireland.
Senator Cosgrove said:
“The Government’s decision to delay the modest increase in paid sick leave is an affront to low-paid workers who are already struggling to make ends meet. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael’s predictable rollback on this basic entitlement is both misguided and unjust.
“Instead of reneging on their commitments to workers, the Government should focus on supporting businesses through a European-style targeted short-time work scheme. This approach would provide the necessary assistance to businesses without compromising the health and financial stability of employees.
“The reality for most people is that they simply can’t afford to be sick. Bills still need to be paid, and families need to be fed. We must break this cycle where individuals are forced to choose between going to work while ill or losing a portion of their income.
“Sick pay is not a luxury; it is a fundamental right. Across the EU, 22 countries, as well as the UK, already have statutory sick pay. Ireland remains one of only a few EU members that does not recognise this essential right. The Government has a responsibility to employees, employers, and communities to implement mandatory paid sick leave.
“Once again, the Government is kicking the can down the road on this issue. We must ensure that no more workers are forced to choose between their wages and their health. The Government must grasp the nettle and act decisively to protect workers’ rights.”