The proposals concerning sickness benefit will soon be submitted to parliament.
Among steps related to sick pay Ms Nagy noted that under a government decision taken in March, the maximum daily amount of the sickness benefit has been halved to HUF 5,200 from May 1.
Ms Nagy said that many people consider sick leave as a “shelter” from becoming unemployed. The number of people on “passive sick leave” has sharply increased during the past few years, she said, adding that it had reached 84,000 in 2010.
“The government wants to create clear rules… those that are really sick should receive benefits, but those who are actually unemployed, not ill should be encouraged to find a job,” the spokeswoman said.
According to the government’s plans, doctors requesting sickness benefits for people without a valid reason will be obliged to repay the amount to the national health fund, Ms Nagy said.
Concerning planned changes to disability pensions, Ms Nagy said that those that are really disabled should continue to be entitled for a pension, but people who have used it as an alternative to employment should return to work.
The government discussed a draft proposal concerning disability pensions on Wednesday and will discuss a finalized draft later this month.
The government will reduce opportunities for abusing public funds to a minimum in all areas, the spokeswoman said. She noted a bill of amendment to the Penal Code initiated by the government which will make abuse of public funds punishable. Under the amendment, abuse of social security, social or other welfare allowances such as disability pension or sickness benefit will also become punishable, with up to 2 years’ imprisonment, above a value of HUF 20,000.
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