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05 Sept 2025

Local Carlow TD welcomes new extended parental leave

TD Jennifer Murnane O'Connor has described the extension of paid Parent's Leave to 9 weeks as a progressive step forward for parents.

Local Carlow TD welcomes new extended parental leave

|Photo: Pixabay

Reporter:

Charlie O’Gorman

01 Aug 2024 7:00 PM

Local Carlow Fianna Fáil TD Jennifer Murnane O'Connor has described the extension of paid Parent's Leave to 9 weeks as a progressive step forward for parents.
Under the Parent’s Leave and Benefit schemes, the number of weeks that parents can take time off work, with financial support from the State, has been increased from 7 weeks to 9 weeks. The support applies to both parents.
If adoptive parents have adopted a child within the last 2 years, they will also be entitled to an extra two weeks’ leave.
Commenting Deputy Murnane O'Connor said: “The extension of Parent's Leave is a progressive step forward for parents. The birth of a child is a special time for parents, and quality time with their child is essential in those early days.”
She also said that for the parents to know they are financially supported throughout their leave will give them comfort.
“The inclusion of parents of adopted children shows that Fianna Fáil in government is inclusive and progressive. Fianna Fáil wants children and parents to have that special bonding time together in the first few years of the child’s life.
“Along with the extended leave, for parents to know they will be financially supported by the government will be of great relief to them at a time where they need it the most.”
“Fianna Fáil in government is committed to supporting families right across the country.”
Parent’s Leave and Benefit is available to eligible parents with a child under 2 years of age or who have adopted a child within the last 2 years.
In 2023, almost 78,200 Parent’s Benefit claims were awarded– compared to just 16,700 in 2020.
Over 38,800 Parent’s Benefit claims have been awarded in the first half of this year.

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