Maternity Leave

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 June 2021

Wednesday, 30 June 2021

Questions (140)

Colm Burke

Question:

140. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider proposals for the equal entitlement to mothers of children born through surrogacy to apply for maternity leave, maternity benefits and parental leave; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35112/21]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has responsibility for family leaves such as maternity leave and parental leave. Where such leave is provided for in statute, my Department has responsibility for payment of any associated benefit. As such, these matters fall to be considered by the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth in the first instance.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.