To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans he has to strengthen employment laws in relation to women going through the menopause.

Women going through the menopause can experience challenges within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause. Whilst the menopause is not by itself a specific protected characteristic under equality legislation, if an employee or worker is disadvantaged or treated less favourably because of their menopause symptoms, this could be discrimination if related to a protected characteristic such as age, gender or disability.

Good employers have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I intend to strengthen the rights to request flexible working though a future Employment Rights Bill.

In June 2023, the Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions published a guide entitled Promoting Equality in Employment for Women Affected by Menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace policies. I would encourage all employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff experiencing symptoms of menopause.