Alliance Communities spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has welcomed the extension of statutory sick pay to vulnerable people unable to work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Strangford MLA was speaking after today’s meeting of the Assembly Communities Committee, which agreed the legislation to extend the sick pay, by adding a new category of people defined by the Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Wellbeing as being extremely vulnerable and at high risk from coronavirus, and who have been advised to follow shielding measures.

“This is a piece of good news in the midst of this terrible crisis,” said Ms Armstrong.

“Statutory sick pay provides clarity for staff and employers, and gives a reassurance to those at high risk to now know they can access it while shielding, if working from home is not an option.

“I have asked the Department for Communities to work with the Department for the Economy to ensure awareness of this change is broadcast, so all those who are potentially impacted are conscious of it. Alliance will continue to push to ensure all support measures are clearly communicated to both employers and employees, so monies are available now when they are needed.”