Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2026
4. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Social Protection for an update on the commitment to "Introduce Pay Related Parents Benefit and explore other payments where a similar model could be applied"; if maternity benefit is also being considered for pay related benefit status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14496/26]
View answerParent’s Benefit provides nine weeks paid leave to parents during the first two years of a child’s life or following adoption. In reality, Parent’s Benefit is part of a suite of family leave which includes Maternity, Paternity, and Adoptive leaves, forming the core caregiving period for parents of new children. In total, parents are provided with up to 46 weeks of paid leave in the first two years of their child’s life or placement, in the case of adoption.
The Programme for Government commits to introducing Pay-Related Parent's Benefit and exploring other payments where a similar model could be applied. These commitments are linked to an increase in social insurance contribution rates to fund any increased costs.
A pay-related model, which moves away from flat rates of payment, would provide a stronger financial cushion to new parents while reflecting the contributory and solidarity principles of the social insurance system. This approach may also encourage more fathers to take up these schemes to care for their children.
A pay-related model was introduced on 31 March 2025 for Jobseeker’s Benefit. My Department will draw on the learnings and operational experience from it to inform options for Parent's Benefit and other family leave schemes.
To progress this commitment, I intend to issue a public consultation document on a pay-related approach to Parents' Benefit in the autumn, which will also help to inform decisions about other family and related benefits. This consultation will invite views from the public, employers and stakeholders to support the process and to assist in the development of any future proposals in this area.
I trust this clarifies my position.
