Colm Burke
Ceist:89. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection if consideration has been given to introducing a pay-related maternity benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15525/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 26 February 2026
Ceisteanna (89)
Freagraí scríofa
The Programme for Government commits to introducing Pay-Related Parent's Benefit and exploring other payments where a similar model could be applied. 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.
Parent’s Benefit provides nine weeks paid leave to each parent during the first two year of a child’s life or following adoption.
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.
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. I want to invite the views of 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.