AQW 4601/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 13/10/2022
Answered On Date: 24/10/2022
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 3060/22-27, whether he plans to bring forward legislation to protect the rights of working women experiencing symptoms of menopause or fertility treatment which may impact their ability to work.

Answer:

In order to meet its statutory obligations, the immediate focus and priority for my Department, on employment related entitlements, is the progression of miscarriage leave and pay and domestic abuse safe leave.

I have previously said that I believe an Employment Bill is needed to ensure our employment law framework continues to meet the needs of workers and businesses.

Whilst there are no plans at present to legislate beyond the existing legal and equality obligations currently in effect, I encourage all employers to treat their workers fairly and sympathetically.

Any proposals for inclusion in a future Employment Bill will be subject to the views of the Executive, stakeholder engagement, public consultation and the relevant Assembly processes.