AQW 12792/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 31/05/2024
Answered On Date: 05/06/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans he has to strengthen employment laws in relation to women going through the menopause.

Answer:

Women going through the menopause can experience challenges within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause. Whilst the menopause is not by itself a specific protected characteristic under equality legislation, if an employee or worker is disadvantaged or treated less favourably because of their menopause symptoms, this could be discrimination if related to a protected characteristic such as age, gender or disability.

Good employers have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I intend to strengthen the rights to request flexible working though a future Employment Rights Bill.

In June 2023, the Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions published a guide entitled Promoting Equality in Employment for Women Affected by Menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace policies. I would encourage all employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff experiencing symptoms of menopause.