Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 May 2021
110. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Social Protection the take-up of parent’s leave and parent’s benefit since the extension was announced on 1 April 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26251/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 1 April 2021, Parent’s Leave was extended from two weeks to five weeks as per a commitment in the Programme for Government. Since the changes came into effect, the Department of Social Protection has awarded Parent’s Benefit to some 6,633 parents at a cost of over €2.6 million.
In comparison, just 702 parents availed of Parent’s Benefit in April 2020, when the support was paid for two weeks. There was a 112% increase in claims received and awarded in April 2021 compared to March 2021, which is also reflected in the total spend for the scheme in the respective months.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
