Movember Calls for Paternity Leave Reform in Ireland Amid Financial Strain
Movember is calling for paternity leave reform in Ireland, citing a report that shows fathers lose three-quarters of their income on current €299 weekly benefits for two weeks. Ireland ranks poorly in the EU for paid paternity leave, with many fathers experiencing financial strain and career concerns. The charity urges the government to establish a working group to address these issues.
Men's health charity Movember is advocating for paternity leave reforms in Ireland, urging the Government to establish a Paternity Leave Working Group. This group would examine barriers and opportunities, including leave duration, payment rates, and workplace culture. Currently, State paternity benefit is €299 per week for two consecutive weeks.
A new Movember report, «Extra Time with Dad», reveals that Irish fathers lose three-quarters of their average weekly income when taking State paternity leave. Ireland ranks fifth from bottom among EU states for paid supported leave for new fathers, offering the minimum two weeks allowed under EU law. A survey of 403 fathers with children aged ten or under, commissioned by Movember, found that nearly seven in ten experienced financial strain from taking paternity leave. Half felt more leave would risk career progression.
Movember Country Manager Sarah Ouellette stated that fathers who take paternity leave report better mental health, stronger child bonds, and greater partner support. She emphasized that supporting fathers benefits families and noted Ireland's decade-long lag behind Europe on this issue.