Ireland’s statutory sick pay scheme is a vital step in protecting employees' well-being and financial stability during periods of illness. This legislation ensures that employers provide a minimum level of paid sick leave, offering essential financial support when employees are unable to work due to illness or injury.

Keeping up to date with the latest regulations, we dive into the recent changes announced by the Revenue Commissioners regarding Enhanced Reporting Requirements (ERR) and the new adjustments to the Construction Workers Sick Pay Scheme (CWPS). These updates, effective from July 2024, bring significant implications for employers and employees alike. Stay informed and ensure your business is ready to adapt to these new requirements.

Following an announcement by the government in June 2021 of plans to establish a statutory sick pay (SSP) scheme, a draft Sick Leave Bill was published on 5 November 2021. On 13 July 2022, the Bill was passed by the Oireachtas. And on 20 July 2022, the Sick Leave Act 2022 became law.

The new scheme aims to bring Ireland in line with other European countries that have mandatory paid sick leave for workers in place.

Under the legislation, employers will be obliged to provide a minimum number of paid sick days annually from 2023.