Maternity Leave

Tuesday, 9 July 2024

Questions (634)

John Brady

Question:

634. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if, in relation to amendments to the Maternity Protection Act 2004 allowing for the postponement of maternity leave in the case of a cancer diagnosis, he still supports his public commitment to amending this legislation; the actions he is taking to ensure this legislation passes through the relevant stages of the Oireachtas during the term of this Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29814/24]

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Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

At the end of last year I announced plans to introduce legislation to allow women undergoing treatment for cancer or other serious illnesses postpone their maternity leave.My officials are finalising these proposals and I intend to bring them to Cabinet for approval in the coming weeks.

The Maternity Protection Act 1994 and the Maternity Protection (Amendment) Act 2004 provide a pregnant employee with six months of paid maternity leave and an additional 16 weeks of unpaid leave. All forms of family leave are kept under review to ensure that they are effective in supporting families and children.