The Government has announced that it will increase paid sick leave days from three to five from January 1st. 

Sick leave is paid at 70% of gross earning, up to a cap of €110. 

It is primarily aimed at employees in low-paid and precarious roles who do not have access to a company sick leave scheme. 

This announcement is part of the Government’s programme to increase employer-paid sick leave to 10 days by 2026. 

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail Neale Richmond said the increased days available will offer more protection to lower paid workers. 

“We do not want workers to feel that they must attend work when they are sick due to financial fears,” he said. 

“Paid sick leave is an important workers’ right which provides protection to employees who are genuinely unable to work due to ill health or injury. 

“Lower paid workers who cannot afford to miss work when sick stand to benefit the most from this increase to five days paid sick leave.” 

The Government said it is “acutely aware” that small businesses are concerned with costs but said the solution is not to “dilute workers’ rights”. 

“The Increased Cost of Business Scheme, announced in Budget 2024, will provide direct financial support to small businesses who are most impacted by increased costs.”