An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar:

The Government recognises that employees who need to self-isolate in accordance with medical advice should receive income support. This will require flexibility and responsiveness by employers and in Government social protection schemes. Following consultation with employers and trade union representatives, proposals will be considered by the Cabinet Subcommittee next Monday.

Further details:

In particular, the Government agrees that it is essential that all employees complying with medical advice consistent with guidance from the Health Service Executive and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), should receive income support when doing so.

This is in line with the recommended public health actions for a containment phase i.e. individuals should not be dis-incentivised to disclose symptoms or to inform their employer of exposure to Covid-19.

The Workplace Relations Commission has already issued a guidance note on Covid-19 for employers and employees. All employers are being asked to engage and to be as flexible as possible with employees to explore options as the need might arise.

The Government recognises that the State itself is the largest employer in the country, and guidance will be issued today in respect of the arrangements that will apply to all Civil and Public Service employees.

The Government acknowledges that there are a wide range of scenarios where businesses and employees will be potentially affected by the impacts of Covid-19.

The Taoiseach welcomed support from Congress and IBEC for national efforts to respond to the public health threat posed by Covid-19.

The Taoiseach has asked officials to meet with employer and trade union representatives to discuss further how this assistance can best be provided. This is in addition to ongoing wider stakeholder engagement on managing the impact of Covid-19. All Government Departments and Agencies, including the Workplace Relations Commission, are working together on this issue.

Following this consultation with employers and trade union representatives, proposals will be considered by the Cabinet Subcommittee chaired by the Taoiseach next Monday.