Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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It is hard to talk about this issue. It is not normal for a parent to lose a child. You never imagine yourself going before your child, which must be absolutely horrific. A parent has enough to deal with having lost a loved one without having to worry about days off work, bills and whatever. When I read that similar leave is already granted to workers in the Civil Service and public service, it is clear it is time to extend the right to employees in the private sector. It does not matter where someone works, including on a till or as a receptionist. Everyone grieves the same. These are issues we need to address.

We need to be there for the families going through this. This is a good way of showing it. I was listening to the earlier discussion. I was in the House asking questions on promised legislation and I just came in and got the last few pieces. I am in agreement; I think people go through enough. It is horrific because their whole life changes. That cannot change again because they are simply going from day to day. This definitely needs to be looked at and the Deputy has my support.