In advance of 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, NIC ICTU has written to all MLAs to urge them to support the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Bill which will be brought before the Assembly on 29 November by Rachel Woods MLA.
The Bill proposes 10 days of paid leave for victims/survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.
Clare Moore, Equality Officer with ICTU said
Trade unions have long campaigned for the introduction of workplace supports for victims and survivors and we are pleased to support this important Bill which proposes 10 days of paid leave.
The ability to take paid time off work to seek help can be a life-or-death matter for many victims and survivors. It is also incredibly important that there is no financial penalty for doing so, it is therefore vital that the Assembly passes this Bill.
Safe Leave will be a lifeline for domestic abuse victims and survivors, giving them the time to find alternative accommodation, deal with legal issues, get welfare support, seek healthcare, and protect their families.
For many victims and survivors, the threat of losing their job or incurring a reduction in salary is a significant additional burden during an already difficult and stressful time.
Safe Leave has already been introduced in many countries, including the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Similar legislation is also being brought forward in the Republic of Ireland.
The private sector has also recognised its significance, with Danske Bank and Vodafone offering it to their employees.
