Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021
555. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) will be eligible for the parent’s leave and benefit as announced in budget 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9386/21]
View answer562. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection the most recent timeline regarding the introduction of the additional three weeks of parental leave; when parents can expect to avail of this crucial support which was announced in October 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9555/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 555 and 562 together.
Parent’s Leave and Benefit will be extended from 2 weeks for each parent to 5 weeks as announced in Budget 2021. This extension will be made available retrospectively to parents in respect of children born or adopted on or after 1st November 2019. The period during which this leave can be taken will be extended from 12 to 24 months so it can be taken up to a child's second birthday or within two years following adoption.
In December 2020, Government approved the drafting of a Parent’s Leave and Benefit (Amendment) Bill, to provide for these statutory amendments. The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has responsibility for parents leave policy and is leading on this legislation.
I can confirm that my Department will be in a position to process and issue payments in respect of Parents Leave taken from the date of enactment of the necessary legislation.
I trust this clarifies the position at this time for the Deputies.
