The Parental Leave (Amendment) Act was signed into Law on 22nd May 2019. Among the changes are an increase in parental leave to 22 weeks from 1st September 2019 (an additional 4 weeks on current entitlements), with a further increase by 4 weeks, to 26 weeks, from 1st September 2020. The maximum age of the child for whom parental leave can be taken has been increased from 8 years to 12 years.
In addition, from November 2019, 2 weeks paid parental leave will be introduced, which can be taken during the first 12 months of the baby’s life. This will be paid at the same rate of maternity and paternity benefit (currently €245.00). This is a non-transferable benefit.