Fathers are legally entitled to two week’s paternity leave from today and it’s important for Donegal employers to ensure they are ready for the law change.
The granting of paternity leave in Ireland is no longer a courtesy extended at the discretion of employers, following the enactment today of the Paternity Leave and Benefit Act 2016.
The state will pay dads €460 for the two weeks of paternity leave, which is in line with maternity leave.
Employers can now expect applications from fathers in both heterosexual or same-sex relationships for two weeks’ paternity leave.
“Employers must remember that the granting of applications for paternity leave is no longer at their discretion. That means all employers should have paternity policies and procedures in place to ensure employment law compliance,” says Breda Cullen from HR Team.
“It’s important for employers to have all the answers to potential questions employees may pose by ensuring that policies and procedures on paternity leave are fully up to date. It is equally important to communicate the information clearly. This is positive news for employees so it is strongly advised that they be informed of the benefits of this legislation to them.”
The facts are quite straight forward. Statutory paternity benefit will amount to €230 per week – in line with maternity leave and based on the same PRSI contribution requirements. Under the new legislation new fathers are entitled to take two weeks’ leave at any time within 26 weeks of birth.
Ms Cullen says it is important that Donegal employers are aware of what the new legislation means for them.
“Fathers must provide four weeks’ written notice of their intention to take paternity leave to their employer – although this may not apply in the cases of premature birth.”
“Employers will have the option as with maternity benefit of ‘topping up’ the statutory paternity leave payment, in which case the payment can be made into the employer’s bank account. Topping up the statutory payment is not a legal requirement although some employers may choose to offer this benefit,” Ms Cullen explains.
She adds that employers should be “mindful” that they do not fall foul of discrimination legislation when introducing a paternity leave policy.
“If an employer is considering ‘topping up’ the State’s contribution then they should also review their maternity leave policy to ensure that there is no discrimination,” Ms Cullen concludes.
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