The highly anticipated Sick Leave Act (“the Act”) was finally signed into law by the President on 22 July this year, however the provisions of the Act are not due to commence until 2023. Employers in anticipation of this, will need to review their Sick Leave policies and ensure that they are in compliance with the Act before 2023.

Provisions of the Act

The Act sees the introduction of a mandatory employer Statutory Sick Pay scheme (“SSP Scheme”) for the first time in this jurisdiction. It will provide for an entitlement to a minimum period of paid sick leave for all employees should they fall ill or sustain an injury which prevents them from being able to work.

The current system in place for employees is that after three days of sick leave an employee may apply for Illness Benefit, however the first three days are not covered. The implementation of the Act will effectively fill the gap in coverage caused by Illness Benefit waiting days.

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