Written answer
Paternity Leave
Ireland and the UK provide two weeks’ paternity benefit, while Ireland plans consultation on introducing a pay-related model aligned with wider European practice.
781. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection his views on the way in which Ireland compares to other EU countries in terms of the level of paternity benefit available through his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65632/26]
Comment on this
782. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection his views on the way in which Ireland compares to the UK in terms of the level of paternity benefit available through his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65631/26]
Comment on this
785. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection his views on the way in which Ireland compares to other EU countries in terms of the level of paternity benefit available through his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65677/26]
Comment on this
786. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection his views on the way in which Ireland compares to the UK in terms of the level of paternity benefit available through his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65676/26]
Comment on this
I propose to take Questions Nos. 781, 782, 785 and 786 together.
The Department of Children, Disability and Equality has legal and policy responsibility for Paternity Leave. The Department of Social Protection is responsible for the payment of the associated benefit. The benefit is paid for two weeks at €299 per week.
Family leave policies vary significantly across countries in terms of duration, payment structure, eligibility, and flexibility, as do contribution to the respective social insurance systems. As a result, direct comparisons can be challenging as policies are shaped by differing cultural, economic, and legislative contexts. Pay-related benefit systems are the norm across EU Member States. In general, the more a person earns while in employment, the greater their payment.
Similar to Ireland, the UK offers 2 weeks paternity leave. Information shows that the UK’s statutory Paternity Benefit is payable up to £194 or 90% of average weekly earnings, whichever is the lower.
The Programme for Government commits to introducing Pay-Related Parent's Benefit and exploring other payments where a similar model could be applied.
To progress this commitment, I intend to issue a public consultation document on a pay-related approach to Parents' Benefit, which will also help to inform decisions about other family related benefits. Experience from the Jobseeker's Pay-Related Benefit will also inform the thinking in any expansion of this approach to other social welfare schemes.