David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank colleagues in the House for their co-operation on this very important Bill, which will make a big difference for families and children. As we said, it introduces two weeks' paid benefit at a weekly rate of €245 for all employees and self-employed persons with sufficient PSRI contributions availing of parent's leave. The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection estimates that up to 60,000 parents will benefit from the scheme at any point in time in a full year when fully rolled out. The estimate for each week of parental benefit for both parents for a full year is €15.8 million. This is very important legislation. I also thank the officials in my Department, the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, the Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel and the drafters' office for all the great work that went into this. The Bill is extraordinarily technical, and I am delighted it has come to this Stage. I thank the Cathaoirleach and colleagues in the Seanad for facilitating its passing.