2710. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the estimated cost of providing a statutory pay for employees taking the five unpaid medical care days granted under the Work-Life Balance and Miscellaneous Act 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56704/26]

The Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 was enacted on 4 April 2023, and introduces important entitlements for workers, including 5 days unpaid leave for medical care purposes for parents of children under 12, and the right to request flexible working for parents and carers.

The costing for the five unpaid medical care days granted under the Work-Life Balance and Miscellaneous Act 2023 has not been undertaken by the Department because this is not the policy basis for the provisions made in the Act.

The new National Strategy for Women and Girls 2025-2030 was published on 18 of November 2025 and sets out a broad range of objectives aimed at reducing inequalities between men and women, including the disparities in caring responsibilities.

The first Action Plan under the new Strategy is currently being finalised and will include actions to support working families in balancing the competing demands of family and work. The Action Plan is due to be published in the coming months. Family leave provisions are kept under review to ensure that they are effective and respond to the needs of families, while also taking account of their impact on workplaces.