Dads of pre-term babies miss out on leave

The new paternity leave benefit will not be backdated for a father whose baby is born prematurely.

The new benefit, which equates to two weeks’ leave paid at a rate of €230 per week, is available for any child born or adopted on or after September 1.

However, if your child has a due date on or after September 1, and is born before this day, you are not eligible for the benefit.