Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am delighted that we are continuing to extend and expand the entitlements that are available to parents in this country. This Bill will entitle parents to an extra three weeks of paid parental leave and create more time for adjusting to the challenges that a new addition to the family brings. It will mean five weeks leave paid by the State for every parent to be taken before a child turns two. All children deserve the best start in life and this Bill will support 30,000 parents to spend more quality time with their young children, something all parents will appreciate.

However, the research shows that when it comes to taking time away from work to care for children, it is still mostly left to mothers. Despite the fact that benefits and leave have increased for fathers in recent years, uptake remains low. Figures published by the CSO last year found that almost half of fathers entitled to paternity leave did not avail of it. Many fathers fear the effects that taking this leave may have on their career, especially those working in small companies. Parental leave must not fall victim to this same pattern. Starting a family and spending quality time with one's children is a right which should never be looked on as a barrier to progressing one's career or profession. I call on all employers to support parents within their organisations and to encourage them to avail of the full parental supports available to them. Both mothers and fathers need to be assured that they will not be at a disadvantage for taking the time out that they rightfully deserve. Being a parent is never easy, but the last year has been especially challenging. I welcome this family leave Bill and the support it will give to parents across Ireland.

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