Northern Ireland's leading construction industry body, Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has called on companies for greater support as the Covid-19 virus continues to spread across the nation.

The coronavirus outbreak, recently labelled a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), is in the containment phase in Northern Ireland. This is the critical stage for employers and employees. Decisive, proactive containment measures taken now can reduce negative impacts in the future. 

In a statement, CEF said they are monitoring the impact of the situation for members.

"The impact of most concern will be the self-isolation of individuals subject to the updated government advice. This is essential to limit and slow down the spread of the virus, to keep the number of affected people to a minimum; and reduce peak pressure on the health service and the impact on the economy.

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"The Government has confirmed that Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) will now be available for eligible individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 or those who are unable to work because they are self-isolating in line with Government advice. This is in addition to the change announced by the Prime Minister that SSP will be payable from day one instead of day four for affected individuals.

"The CEF would encourage all employers to support workers who cannot attend work due to contracting Covid-19 or due to certified self-isolation, by paying them the difference between the SSP and their normal wages.

"We would direct all construction employers and employees to the government website which is updated regularly Government step-by-step guidance."

www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19

www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public

Specific information in relation to financial assistance for employees and employers can be found here.