158. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if consideration has been given to increasing the parental leave age for civil and public servants up to 15 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41698/19]

In relation to parental leave matters, as Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, I only have responsibility for the civil service. Other Ministers have responsibility for parental leave matters in the different sectors of the wider public service.

With effect from 1 September, 2010, the upper age limit of the child increased in the civil service from 8 to 13 years on an administrative basis for civil servants.

In the case of a child with a disability or long term illness, the age limit of sixteen years is applicable.

The age limit under the Parental Leave Acts was amended with effect from 1 September 2019 from 8 to 12 years.

I have no current plans to increase the age limit for civil servants as we are already beyond the new limits set in the Parental Leave (Amendment) Act 2019.