Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

The Minister of State said a small payment to those on parental leave discouraged take up in Europe. That would imply no payment would be more discouraging. If the Government wants people to take up parental leave, the greater the payment the better. It is less likely that people will avail of the option if there is no payment.

Ministers usually respond on legislation such as this that it is subject to negotiation and a balance must be struck and so on. However, this legislation should lead the way. Employers will not concede on this issue unless legislation forces them to do so. A stage will be reached where the Minister of State will have to move ahead of the employers and tell them this has to be done not only for the benefit of the economy, but also for the benefit of individuals and society.

I have read the definition of "the relevant Act" but the wording is not clear. Is it the correct reference?