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In a groundbreaking move to address the challenges faced by victims of domestic violence, the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, has revealed that individuals needing to take domestic violence leave will now be entitled to receive their full pay during their time off. This announcement comes as part of the ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive support to victims of domestic violence and marks a significant step towards ensuring their economic security and safety.

The introduction of domestic violence leave is set to be formalised in the upcoming autumn season through the publication of regulations that will outline the rate of pay and offer guidance for employers. These regulations, which are currently being developed by Women’s Aid, seek to establish a framework that supports victims while also providing clear guidelines for employers to navigate this new form of leave.

Domestic violence leave was incorporated into law as an integral part of the Work Life Balance Act, which was passed earlier this year. This groundbreaking piece of legislation aims to provide victims of domestic violence with the necessary support to access assistance without jeopardizing their employment or financial stability.

Minister Roderic O’Gorman emphasized the significance of this move, stating:

“Domestic violence leave gives a victim of domestic violence the chance to access support without impacting 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 regarding the rate of pay for domestic violence leave was the result of extensive consultation with representatives from various sectors. Employers’ representatives, trade unions, and organisations providing support to victims of domestic violence all played a role in shaping this crucial aspect of the legislation. This inclusive approach ensures that the perspectives and needs of those who work closely with victims of domestic violence are taken into account.

Minister O’Gorman highlighted the collaborative nature of the decision-making process, stating:

“The decision on the rate of pay was taken following consultations with a range of bodies, and their views are reflected in this decision. Any issues raised in the consultations regarding the leave will be taken into account in the review of the provisions.”

Section 7 of the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 introduces a new Section 13AA into the Parental Leave Act 1998 (as amended), specifically to offer five days of paid domestic violence leave. The Minister is now tasked with producing regulations that determine the rate of pay for this leave, in accordance with the newly established Section 13AA(6). This process involves consultation with employers’ representatives, trade unions, and organizations devoted to supporting victims of domestic violence.

The regulations defining the rate of pay are expected to be published in the coming autumn, with the commencement of Section 7 coinciding with this release. Additionally, the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth has commissioned Women’s Aid to develop resources for employers aiming to create their own domestic violence workplace policies. These resources will be made available concurrently with the implementation of the leave, offering comprehensive support for employers navigating this new landscape.

The introduction of full pay for victims of domestic violence taking leave is a powerful step towards prioritizing the safety, well-being, and economic stability of those facing these challenges. This decision reflects the commitment of the government to tackle domestic violence comprehensively and provide a supportive environment for victims to seek assistance while maintaining their livelihoods.