Seanad debates

Wednesday, 28 May 2003

Maternity Protection (Amendment) Bill 2003: Second Stage.

 

In relation to the pre-confinement period of four weeks, it seems ludicrous that this should be forced on people. Rights are there to be enjoyed. One enshrines them in legislation and the Constitution. With regard to the pre-confinement period, we seem to be forcing rights on people who do not want them in that form. The legal advice from the Attorney General, however, is that to do otherwise in that area would be to contravene the relevant EU directive, which is law and which the Government has to obey. I will have it looked at again. We will get legal opinion, and if the situation can be eased, I will be happy to table the appropriate amendment.

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