Minister announces consultation on safe leave for victims of domestic violence

Economy Minister Conor Murphy today launched a consultation on introducing a new right for victims of domestic violence, giving them access to paid time off from work.

The Domestic Violence (Safe Leave) Act 2022 (Northern Ireland) was passed by the Assembly in March 2022. The Department of Economy is required to consult and make regulations to give effect to the Act.

The Minister said: “This progressive legislation will give employees who are victims of domestic violence up to 10 days paid leave each leave year to address issues relating to domestic violence. The aim of this consultation is to seek views on the practicalities of implementing this important new employment law.

“Once safe, these furloughs are in place, they will provide important support in the workplace for the most vulnerable in our society.”

The Minister continued: “I want to hear the views of all stakeholders, including employees, employers, trade unions and support organisations, so that we can develop legislation that supports all users of this important new legislation. I encourage anyone with an interest in this important area to take part in the consultation and share their views.”

The consultation will run for 12 weeks, from 5 July to 27 September 2024.

Consultations are available on the website of the Ministry of Economy.

Notes to editors:

1. The Domestic Violence (Safe Leave) Northern Ireland Act 2022 is available at legislation.gov.uk.

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