Margaret Cox (Fianna Fail)

Earlier this week the House engaged in a good debate on the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill. I raised the question of maternity leave regulations which oblige expectant mothers to take four weeks of their maternity leave prior to delivery. An examination of the statistics will indicate that among European countries, Ireland has among the highest rate of premature babies, by two weeks. This arises because women, doctors and employers are obliged by the regulations to indicate a date for delivery. It is often mistaken as they attempt to secure as much maternity leave as possible after birth. The Minister for Social and Family Affairs has indicated that a review of the regulations on maternity leave and benefit is under way in Europe. I ask the Leader to arrange for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, who has responsibility for the regulations in this area, to attend the House and hear the views of Senators. I hope this will be done at an early stage.