Eoin Hayes
Ceist:613. Deputy Eoin Hayes asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated cost of extending paternity leave by two weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45035/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 16 June 2026
Ceisteanna (613, 614)
Eoin Hayes
Ceist:614. Deputy Eoin Hayes asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated cost of extending parental leave by two weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45036/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 613 and 614 together.
The Department for Children, Disability and Equality has policy and legal responsibility for all family leaves, including any extension to the period of leave under the various schemes. My Department has responsibility for the associated benefits.
Extending Paternity Benefit by two weeks, from its current two week entitlement to four weeks is estimated to cost an additional €17.3 million per year with a total new estimated annual cost of providing four weeks leave of over €34.7 million.
Extending Parent’s Benefit by two weeks per parent could result in an additional annual cost of over €27 million.
It should be noted that these costings have been calculated using 2026 expenditure estimates. They are based on estimated recipient numbers and take up and are therefore subject to change.
Any changes to these schemes would have to be considered in a budgetary context having regard to overall improvements to social welfare schemes and the sustainability of the Social Insurance Fund.
Question No. 614 answered with Question No. 613.