Seanad debates

Wednesday, 28 May 2003

Maternity Protection (Amendment) Bill 2003: Second Stage.

 

Provision of paid time off for attendance at ante-natal classes was also considered by the working group. The Institute of Obstetrics, which was consulted on the matter, was of the opinion that a pregnant woman needs to attend one complete set of ante-natal classes in the interest of her health and safety during the course of pregnancy. Ante-natal classes form an intrinsic part of the ante-natal care package, particularly in a woman's first pregnancy. The 1994 Act provides, in accordance with regulations, for time off without loss of pay for ante-natal and post-natal care. The current definition of ante-natal care does not include ante-natal classes. In line with one of the recommendations of the working group, section 7 of this Bill provides accordingly.

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