Paid domestic violence leave to begin in autumn

Victims of domestic violence will now receive their full pay if they need to take domestic violence leave, it was announced by the Minister for Children and Equality, Roderic O’Gorman last week. The Domestic violence leave initiative will be formally introduced in the autumn.

The legislation is aided by regulations developed by Women’s Aid that set out the rate of pay and guidance for employers.

The requirement to consult with domestic violence support organisations on the rate of pay was added to the legislation at report stage by Minister O’Gorman to ensure that those who work most closely with victims of domestic violence would have the opportunity to contribute their views to the process.

The new form of leave was introduced as part of the Work-Life Balance Act, passed earlier this year.

Speaking about the initiative, Minister O’Gorman said: “Domestic violence leave gives a victim of domestic violence the chance to access support without impacting on their employment and income.

“It is important that they can take the leave without worrying about losing income or being put at more risk. Ensuring that they can receive their full pay will go a long way to help with this.

“The decision on the pay rate was reached following consultation with employers' representatives, trade unions and domestic violence support organisations.

“Any issues raised in the consultations regarding the leave will be taken into account in the review of the provisions.”

Discussing the initiative on Newstalk Breakfast, Mr O’Gorman explained that if someone wants to take the leave, they only need to inform their employer without having to show any proof. This choice was intentionally made to simplify access to the paid leave.

Mr O’Gorman said that Ireland is one of the first European countries to bring in paid leave for victims of domestic violence.