Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State to the House. On behalf of the Labour Party group, I welcome the passage of this historic Bill. It was an initiative of the previous Government and was first proposed by the then Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Joan Burton.We have all been united in our support. It is long overdue, but it is good to see its speedy passage though the Seanad and we all look forward to its speedy implementation. I know that it requires a commencement order, but we can anticipate that it will be put in place swiftly to enable prospective fathers to avail of a new entitlement without further delay.

This is an important Bill in terms of gender equality. It will be the first time we will see specific recognition of fathers in the workplace, which is progressive. Significantly, it is also progressive that it applies to same sex married as well as opposite sex married couples, which is welcome. It is very important for women because it means that child care will no longer be seen as primarily or exclusively a women's issue. Perhaps most importantly, as the Minister of State said, it is also significant for children's rights because it will ensure all children will get the best possible start in life by ensuring their fathers will have rights and entitlements to leave at the time of their birth. I know that many prospective fathers are eagerly anticipating implementation of the legislation, as I know we all are.