Reform could double parental leave

Mothers could be allowed to double the amount of leave they take after having a baby and receive extra weeks off if they agree to split the time at home with their partner.

The Irish Examiner understands the Government is considering the move as part of wider Coalition plans to address affordability and space issues in the early childcare sector, and ensure the responsibility of a new-born child is more evenly shared between parents.

Currently, a mother receives 26 weeks’ paid maternity leave, while a father is not legally entitled to any leave, and only gets it at the discretion of an employer.