Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan has called on the new Economy Minister to facilitate a pilot programme for employers to trial a four-day week. 

The call comes after a response by previous minister Paul Frew who refused to initiate such a scheme or an assessment on how this could enhance productivity.

The party’s spokesperson on workers’ rights said:

“There has been unprecedented interest and support for my call to introduce a pilot scheme that would facilitate a four-day week in work places.

“A four-day week pilot has been proven time and time again to actually increase productivity among workers and offer them a better work life balance.

“I will be asking the new Economy Minister Gordon Lyons to facilitate a pilot programme for employers to trial a four-day week.

“I will continue to raise this issue in the Assembly.”