Sinn Féin have today outlined the party’s plan to deliver 52 weeks of leave for parents so that they can have the opportunity to spend the first year with their baby.

The plan would ensure parents have a choice, as well as benefitting children’s early development and alleviating capacity pressures in the childcare sector.

Spokesperson for Workers’ Rights, Louise O’Reilly, said:

“A Sinn Féin led government will deliver a better, fairer Ireland for you to build a future and raise your family. Today, we are outlining our plan to extend parental leave to cover 52 weeks.

“This will mean that for parents who choose to take this option, their child can be with a parent for the first full year of their life. 

“Currently, under Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael’s chaotic system, Maternity Benefit is available for just 26 weeks, Paternity Leave is available for only two weeks and Parent’s Benefit for a mere nine weeks. Many parents feel forced to return to work or are left scrambling to try to find a childcare place for their young infant. The system is outdated, chaotic and unfair.

“Sinn Féin know that a better way forward is possible. A way where families have choice and where the state respects and supports this choice. Under Sinn Féin’s plan, both lone parents and two-parent families will have access to the necessary number of weeks of benefits for the first 52 weeks of the child’s life to be covered by a parent. 

“Sinn Féin’s plan will make a massive difference for families.

“Our plan will also alleviate pressure on the childcare sector. Under Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, there is a severe shortage of places. Many families are desperately struggling to find a place but simply cannot get a crèche or childminder to take their young child. Our plan will ensure there is less pressure on this already oversubscribed system. 

“Sinn Féin’s plan is detailed, it’s costed and it’s ready to be delivered in government. 

“At this election, voters face a clear choice. It’s a choice between more of the same from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael who have failed families and delivered a chaotic and expensive childcare system. Or a vote for change by voting for Sinn Féin. A Sinn Féin led government will stand up for families and ensure every child who needs can have an affordable childcare place. 

“A Sinn Féin government will make Ireland a better place to build a future and raise a family.”