Naoise Ó Muirí (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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883. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if he will consider introducing an additional payment for expectant mothers who are not eligible for maternity payment through their private employer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29127/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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My Department provides Maternity Benefit to support women who are on Maternity Leave from work and who satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions. It is currently paid at a minimum €289 per week for 26 weeks.

Many employers provide additional top-ups to individuals on maternity leave as part of contractual arrangements. An employee’s contract of employment will outline the employer’s financial contribution to the employee for the maternity leave and this arrangement is outside the control of the Department. It would not be appropriate for the Department to intervene in these arrangements. I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.