Mairéad Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1057. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the consideration that has been given to extend still birth leave in cases in which babies are born at 18-weeks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48142/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I recognise the enormous, personal impact that pregnancy loss has on expectant parents and I wish to extend my sympathies to all parents who have suffered such a tragic loss.

My Department commissioned the PLACES: Pregnancy Loss (under 24 weeks) in the Workplace report, a qualitative research study aimed at examining the workplace experiences of parents coping with pregnancy loss and at determining whether policy interventions are required at a national level to better support bereaved parents in the workplace.

The study focuses on people who experience pregnancy loss prior to 24 weeks’ gestation, as people who have a pregnancy loss after 24 weeks’ gestation can avail of full maternity leave and paternity leave entitlements.

The research report was published on the 26th January 2024. The recommendations arising from this study are being considered by Department officials along with officials in the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment with a view to determining Government policy in respect of this issue. Officials in this Department are also in the process of developing the next National Strategy for Women and Girls, and the research will inform this work.