Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins has welcomed the new paternity benefit scheme which has benefited 41 families across Co Roscommon since it’s introduction.
Senator Hopkins said, “the new Paternity Benefit Scheme has been available since September 1st this year. I am delighted that 41 families across Roscommon have been successful in their applications and have received two weeks of paid paternity leave.”
“Fathers who fulfil the PRSI requirements are eligible to receive the Paternity Benefit at any time within 26 weeks of their child’s birth or adoption of a child and it is payable at a rate of €230 per week.”
“This is a highly innovative scheme and will help fathers devote more time to bonding with their child and helping their partners. The scheme is open to both employees and self employed persons.”
“In order to be eligible to apply parents must have a Public Services Card which can be applied for at local social welfare offices. Employees must give four weeks’ notice of their intention to take Paternity Leave.”
Senator Hopkins concluded, “two weeks paternity leave is a very positive step and I continue to work closely with Minister Varadkar to ensure young families are supported in every way possible”.