Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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60. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the take up of the paid paternity scheme and if the scheme is operating as planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8410/17]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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The paternity benefit scheme was introduced on 1st September 2016 to enable fathers take time off work to care for their new born babies. The scheme provides payment for up to two weeks leave at the rate of €230 per week. Since its introduction, some 7,000 fathers have availed of the leave and the benefit payment.

Details on the paternity benefit claims received in the period from 1st September 2016 to 31stJanuary 2017 are set out in the following table:

When the paternity benefit scheme was introduced, it was estimated that the Department could receive between 20,000 and 30,000 claims per annum. The number of claims received to date is broadly in line with this estimate and indicates that the scheme is operating to plan. My Department is engaged in ongoing communications to publicise the scheme and, in particular, the availability of this benefit as an online service. If you require specific details on uptake in your area please don’t hesitate to contact my office.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.