Organisation of Working Time (Reproductive Health Related Leave) Bill 2021

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The proposal would give employees paid leave after a miscarriage at 28 weeks or less, and also paid leave to attend reproductive healthcare appointments in the State, including care related to pregnancy, childbirth and assisted human reproduction. It would protect that leave so it does not reduce other leave entitlements, and employers would have to keep the details confidential. The measure also aims to stop people being dismissed, suspended or disadvantaged because they took or planned to take this leave, and it would create a way to challenge disputes and get compensation if rights are breached. It matters because it would give clear workplace support to people dealing with pregnancy loss or reproductive health treatment.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to provide for a period of paid leave consequent upon miscarriage or for the purposes of availing of reproductive healthcare; for that purpose to amend the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997; to extend the protection against unfair dismissals conferred by the Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977 to 2015; to provide for the consequential amendment of certain other Acts; and to provide for related matters.

Last updated 2 May 2025