Senator Ollie Crowe has this week called for the Government to introduce parental leave for parents who suffer a miscarriage before the 24th week of pregnancy.
At present in Ireland, if a person has a stillbirth or miscarriage after the 24th week of the pregnancy they are entitled to full maternity leave. Senator Crowe said this needs to be examined and reformed.
"The current legislation of 24 weeks being a landmark in Ireland and other countries makes little sense. Parents suffer from an enormous loss, an enormous tragedy regardless of what week it happens," he said.
Enhanced supports needed
“We need to provide special leave for this tragic scenario so that people are not required to use their ordinary sick leave which I understand happens in many cases currently. This is a very sensitive issue and one which is rarely spoken with families often suffering in silence. It is time we enhanced supports significantly for families who have to confront this tragedy.”
Senator Crowe confirmed he had contacted the office of An Taoiseach and the Minister for Health office regarding this. “I am awaiting their response, but I think this is an area the Government needs to look at and reform in the short term. It has gone without being tackled for too long."
