A new Paternity Benefit is being introduced next year whereby fathers will, for the first time, have the option of applying for 2 weeks" leave in respect of births from September 2016. This will be paid at €230 per week, based on the same PRSI contributions as required for Maternity Benefit. The Tánaiste said: "I am particularly pleased to announce the introduction of a Paternity Benefit scheme from next year. This is one of the measures which I am announcing in order to support families in the workplace and, in particular recognises the important role of fathers in bringing up their children."
This is a very welcome development. Paternity leave has been a long standing demand of Congress who have been campaigning on the issue along with the National Women's Council and Start Strong. More here
Update June 2016: Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar and Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality Frances Fitzgerald marked Father's Day by confirming publication of the Paternity Bill to provide fathers with two weeks of paternity leave and two weeks of paternity benefit.
