Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Social Democrats I too thank John for his work and wish him the best for the future.

In the budget this week, an additional three weeks' parental benefit was allocated, which is welcome. I am aware, however, that many parents were disappointed that it will only apply from April. As the Tánaiste will be aware, parents with children under the age of one are finding it particularly difficult to find childcare and there are many constraints on them at the moment. Will the Government consider applying that benefit from January rather than waiting until April?

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