Dr. Claire Keane:

We have not done work on that ourselves. We can consider other research evidence regarding those policies, including internationally. We have seen advancements in Ireland where we now have a few weeks of paternity leave. In countries where it is offered to both genders, it should not be seen as a male-female thing: it is always a bit harsh to think men do not want to spend any time with their children and do not want to have those options open to them. It is also partly a mindset. The husband of a friend of mine decided to go on a four-day week to help out with their three young children. It was almost a shock at the start in his company, but now more men are asking him how he did it and realise they can avail of parental leave. It is mainly about changing mindsets and that is where legislation comes in.

Earlier I mentioned Sweden in the context of paternity leave. Until it introduced a "use it or lose it" policy, where a certain amount of parental leave was ring-fenced for men, there was not much of an impact on expanding parental leave in terms of female participation and closing gaps. The change happened when it became almost mandatory for the father to avail of parental leave as well. It becomes normal and more part of society with both genders as likely to want to avail of those family friendly policies.