AQW 3079/22-27

Mr Stewart Dickson
Alliance Party
East Antrim

Tabled Date: 08/09/2022
Answered On Date: 14/09/2022
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy whether he is considering introducing a statutory right to time off work for people undergoing fertility treatment.

Answer:

Good employers recognise the potential impact undergoing fertility treatment can have on the ability of employees to work during this period. They have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours or compassionate leave. I would encourage all employers to offer such flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff.

There are no plans at present to introduce a statutory tight to time off for persons undergoing fertility treatment. An immediate focus and priority for my Department is the progression of paid miscarriage leave and domestic abuse safe leave.