Employers fears over statutory sick pay plan effects

Employers group IBEC has claimed that the introduction of a statutory sick pay scheme in Budget 2013 would have damaging consequences for growth and jobs.

In a survey, almost half (49%) of the 450 respondents with an occupational sick pay scheme said such a move would affect their company's ability to recruit new employees.

A similar number (47%) said it would affect their ability to retain existing staff and 42% said it would affect the sustainability of their business in Ireland.