AQW 8678/22-27

Mr Robbie Butler
Ulster Unionist Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 12/03/2024
Answered On Date: 03/04/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy whether he has requested options to review the support available for adopters who are self-employed, with a view to bringing their rights in line with those of employed parents.

Answer:

Entitlement to statutory adoption pay, and many other forms of statutory payments, are linked to the type of national insurance contributions made. This often results in a difference between the rights and entitlements of employees and those who are self-employed. Other forms of support may be available depending on individual circumstances.

Leave and pay arrangements for working parents who adopt are currently operated on a consistent basis between Britain and the north of Ireland. This is a long-standing approach that generally enjoys the support of stakeholders. I will continue to keep differences in treatment between self-employed and employed people under review.