The legislation is timely given that the latest studies show the number of births is hitting a 15 year high, with 60,500 babies born last year. Significantly, 40% of births were to first-time mothers, which represents the highest rate since statistics were first compiled. The Bill recognises the pressures facing parents in the workplace and provides that expectant mothers can attend one set of ante-natal classes without loss of pay. It recognises the need to give fathers flexibility and gives them the once-off right to paid time off to attend the two ante-natal classes immediately prior to birth. The Bill also recognises the increasing number of women who choose to breastfeed and the need for employers to be flexible and accommodating in this respect by allowing for either an adjustment in working hours or breastfeeding breaks.