Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has restated plans to introduce 10 days' paid Safe Leave for workers affected by domestic abuse before the end of the current Assembly mandate, alongside employer guidance.

Dr Archibald reaffirmed the commitment, saying the measure will support employees to access services, attend appointments and take steps to secure their safety.

Her comments followed a meeting with the Department's Domestic Abuse Safe Leave Working Group, which is preparing clear and practical guidance for employers and workers ahead of the new entitlement coming into force. Minister Archibald said: "Domestic abuse is a workplace issue, and paid safe leave will provide vital support to workers at an extremely difficult time in their lives. I am committed to delivering the necessary secondary legislation to operationalise safe leave before the end of this Assembly mandate.

"No-one should have to choose between their safety and their job. It is important that this new right is supported by clear, practical and sensitive guidance.

"I want to thank the Working Group members for their expertise and for helping us ensure that the legislation and guidance work effectively for those who need to rely on them, while also supporting employers to understand and fulfil their obligations."

The initiative forms part of the Minister's wider Good Jobs agenda to foster fair, inclusive workplaces and ensure those experiencing domestic abuse can access support with dignity and confidence.