Exciting news for parents as Parent’s Leave and Benefit has been extended from seven weeks to nine weeks, announced as part of Budget 2024. This means parents with children under the age of two or recently adopted children can now claim an additional two weeks of leave.

Parent’s Leave is open to both employees and self-employed individuals, with Parent’s Benefit paid at a rate of €274 per week for those with enough PRSI contributions. Employers are not required to pay workers on Parent’s Leave, although some may choose to ‘top-up’ their payments.

Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman emphasized the importance of this support for parents, highlighting the positive uptake rates. He also mentioned the possibility of increasing financial benefits or time for parents in the future, showing the commitment of the Government to supporting families.

With the ongoing focus on family-friendly policies, the extension of Parent’s Leave and Benefit is a welcome development for parents across Ireland.