Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein)
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1154. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will consider allowing non-birthing parents the entitlement to paid leave to attend the 20-week scan in addition to the last two ante-natal classes which are provided for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21035/22]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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Section 15A(2) of the Maternity Protection Acts 1994-2004 provides for a right to paid time off to attend the final 2 ante-natal classes in a set of such classes to an expectant father. This entitlement is available once only. The purpose of this entitlement is to allow the expectant father to prepare for the birth of the child.

Family leave entitlements are kept under review to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of parents and children.  However, there are no plans at present to amend the entitlements currently provided for under the Maternity Protection Acts.