Maternity benefit question transfer
Moynihan-Cronin objects that her maternity benefit question was transferred to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and says claimants deserve an answer. The Minister explains that entitlement depends on maternity leave under legislation administered by that Department and advises her to table the question there; the Chair says it cannot be pursued during this session.
I had a question tabled for Priority Questions today and I object in the strongest possible manner that my question was transferred to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. With your permission I wish to state the question.
Comment on this
The Chair has no control over the transfer of questions. The matter cannot be pursued now. We must proceed with Priority Questions.
Comment on this
The people I represent who are claiming maternity benefit deserve an answer from the Minister today.
Comment on this
My Department contacted Deputy Moynihan-Cronin in relation to the matter of maternity leave and indicated it is dealt with under the provisions of the Maternity Protection Act, 1994, for which the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has responsibility. Maternity benefit is contingent on whether a person is entitled to maternity leave and that is dictated by that legislation. For that reason the question was transferred. I suggest the Deputy tables the question to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.