Social Welfare Benefits

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2021

Tuesday, 6 July 2021

Ceisteanna (222)

Claire Kerrane

Ceist:

222. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of local authority employees who availed of two weeks of parent’s benefit and leave which was topped up by employers; the number of employees who availed of the additional three weeks benefit and leave as of April 2021; if local authorities plan on topping up the benefit payment for employees for the additional weeks moving forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35817/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

Under section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each Chief Executive is responsible for staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible.

My Department does not have the information requested but it should be available from each local authority.

In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Parent's Leave and Benefit Act 2019, there is no requirement for an employer to make top up payments to the Department of Social Protection payment.