Employee FAQ

Employee FAQ

What should I do if I am unwell and cannot attend work?

Notify your Line Manager as early as possible on the first day of absence and copy hrsickleave@universityofgalway.ie. Where possible, indicate the expected duration of your absence. 

How many sick days can I take without a medical certificate?

Employees may take up to 7 days uncertified sick leave in a rolling two-year period, with a maximum of 2 consecutive days at any one time. 

When do I need a medical certificate?

A medical certificate is required: 

• From the third consecutive day of absence.
• From the first day of absence if you have already used your uncertified sick leave entitlement.  

What is my paid sick leave entitlement?

For ordinary illness, employees may be granted: 

• Up to 92 calendar days on full pay, followed by
• Up to 91 calendar days on half pay,
• Subject to a maximum of 183 paid sick leave days in a rolling four-year period.  

What if I have a serious or critical illness?

Under the Critical Illness Protocol (CIP), employees may qualify for enhanced paid sick leave, subject to medical assessment and approval. 

Do I need to apply for Illness Benefit?

Yes. Employees should apply for Department of Social Protection Illness Benefit where eligible. This generally applies when absent for more than five days initially and more than three days for subsequent claims in the same calendar year.

What do I need to do when I return to work?

Complete and submit the Return to Work Post Sick Leave (SL1) Form, signed by both you and your manager, after every sick leave absence. 

Can I work while on certified sick leave?

No. If you are medically certified as unfit for work, the expectation is that you will not work during that period of certified absence. 

Can I change sick leave to annual leave afterwards?

No. Sick leave cannot be retrospectively converted to another leave type such as annual leave. 

What if I return earlier than the date on my medical certificate? 

You must provide a fit-to-return certificate or an amended medical certificate from your doctor before returning to work. 

What is Income Protection?

All eligible new employees are automatically accepted into the Plan upon commencement of employment. If you opted out* of the Plan you may still apply to join the Plan if you are: A pensionable employee of the University of Galway and Under age 66 and Actively at work. Visit University of Galway Income Protection website for more information.

What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19 and am unable to work?

If you test positive for COVID-19 and are unwell and unable to work, you may be eligible for COVID-19 Special Leave with Pay in line with current Government and HSE guidance. A medical certificate confirming your COVID-19 diagnosis must be submitted to your Line Manager and copied to hrsickleave@universityofgalway.ie as soon as possible on the first day of absence.

How long can I receive COVID-19 Special Leave with Pay?

COVID-19 Special Leave with Pay applies during the period recommended by public health guidance. If you are unable to return to work after 5 consecutive calendar days, your absence will transfer to the University's normal sick leave arrangements.

What is the process for attending a medical appointment during working hours?

Medical Appointments During Working Hours 

• Time Off for Appointments: Managed at local level, through time off in lieu (TOIL) with prior agreement from the line manager.
• Full Day Medical Appointment: Requires a medical certificate or can be recorded as an uncertified sick day