John McGuinness
Question:1122. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress made on the introduction of an extra three weeks of parental benefit; and the timeframe for the change to apply. [18661/21]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
1122. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress made on the introduction of an extra three weeks of parental benefit; and the timeframe for the change to apply. [18661/21]
View answerThe Family Leave and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2021 was enacted on 27th March 2021, with a Commencement Order providing for the additional three weeks of Parents Leave and Benefit taking effect from 1 April 2021.
In preparation for this extension, my Department implemented the required system updates in advance so as to be in a position to begin processing applications immediately. Parents Benefit applications are processed in order of the date of commencement of the Parents Leave. My Department is currently processing claims with a commencement date of 2nd May 2021.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.