Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2024
425. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when he intends to introduce the Heads of Bill to legislate for working mothers who get cancer in pregnancy, or postpartum, and are subsequently forced to use up their maternity leave while getting treated for and recovering from a cancer diagnosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20191/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra475. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if, in relation to amendments to the Maternity Protection Act 2004 allowing for the postponement of maternity leave in the case of a cancer diagnosis, he still supports his public commitment to this policy; what actions he is taking to ensure this legislation passes through the relevant stages of the Oireachtas during the term of this Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20897/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 425 and 475 together.
The Maternity Protection Act 1994 and the Maternity Protection (Amendment) Act 2004 provide a pregnant employee with six months of paid maternity leave and an additional 16 weeks of unpaid leave. All forms of family leave are kept under review to ensure that they are effective in supporting families and children.
In October I announced plans to introduce legislation to allow women undergoing treatment for cancer or other serious illnesses postpone their maternity leave.
It is planned to bring this forward together with a number of amendments arising out of my Department’s review of Ireland’s equality legislation. My officials are finalising these proposals and I intend to bring them to Cabinet for approval in the coming weeks.
