AQW 8383/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 07/03/2024
Answered On Date: 25/03/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 5570/22-27, to detail the key provisions he intends to include in the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill.

Answer:

I have previously stated that I plan to bring forward a Good Jobs Bill to help deliver my economic vision. I have already announced that I plan to replace zero hours contracts with contracts that provide flexibility and protect workers’ rights, and strengthen the role of trade unions, particularly in low paying sectors. I have also confirmed that I intend to consider a range of options to help support working families as well as helping to promote a good work life balance.

There are a considerable range of other potential policies that I will want to consider as part of the good jobs agenda. In that regard my officials are presently developing options and will engage with stakeholders on a co-design basis, as well as hold a public consultation. There will be full engagement with stakeholders and the Economy Committee prior to agreeing the content of the primary legislation for this mandate.