Sick pay regime change

Sir, – Fantastic. The owners of SMEs might now have to pay the first four weeks of sick pay for their employees while they themselves…

Sir, – Fantastic. The owners of SMEs might now have to pay the first four weeks of sick pay for their employees while they themselves are not entitled to this or any social welfare assistance in the event of illness or unemployment. Very equitable! – Yours, etc,

ANN O DONOGHUE,

Shannon Lawn,

North Circular Road,

Limerick.

Sir, – It is with utter dismay that I learn today about Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton’s plan for employers to pay for sick leave. How exactly does she think the economy will come out of recession if the Government proposes to penalise employers for taking on staff? And could you remind me again, exactly why do we pay PRSI? – Yours, etc,

ANGELA KEARNEY,

Fair Street,

Drogheda,

Co Louth.

A chara, – I see the Government has proposed changes to the current sick pay regime. This is great news as at this stage I am thoroughly sick of paying for bankers, builders and retired politicians. – Is mise,

DECLAN KEANE,

Prosperous,

Co Kildare.