Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

In that case, the Government is planning to squeeze this in to the last few weeks of 2021. It is really disappointing that one of the first initiatives announced by this Government potentially undercuts parents. The Government, in its amendment, states it will examine the matter, that it is a proposal at this stage and that there are no guarantees with regard to the amount of paid leave promised to struggling parents. It is also unfortunate and disappointing that the Government has done this in a way that has completely undermined a campaign led by women who have far more pressing issues on their minds and much greater demands on their time than campaigning for supports that should provided for them. We should be supporting women and their families in the same way we supported the SME sector. This has been a cynical move by the Government given the indications given in recent weeks by both the current and previous Taoisigh that they would listen and take into consideration what these women were asking for.

We should not be playing political games with this important issue. We should want better for women, mothers and families in this country. We should recognise the integral role that women and mothers play in society, not only in the economy but also in providing quality of life for children, young people and those who need care. Women continue to be undervalued, underpaid and under-represented. This has to change. It is time we saw Covid as an opportunity to rectify the entrenched inequalities that exist in society and begin reforming how the economy works for mothers, parents and families. I noted the Minister stated there would be three weeks' parental leave per parent, meaning each family would have six weeks. In many families, there is only one parent and that must also be considered.

Extending maternity leave and pay is an opportunity for the Government to show it is serious about addressing the barriers facing women. The way in which a Government addresses a crisis shows its priorities for the foreseeable future. Parents, mothers in particular, have been at the crossroads of the numerous State responses to this crisis. The response has failed to address the reality for mothers and women during this pandemic where childcare, education and health are concerned. I urge the Government to acknowledge this first and foremost by extending the maternity leave and pay until November, as provided for in the motion. It is time for us all to come together and help mothers hold their babies.

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