Question:  

Is it true that parental leave is due to increase from 18 weeks to 26 weeks?

Answer:

Yes, the Parental Leave (Amendment) Bill 2017 provides for the extension of parental leave from 18 weeks to 26 weeks. The Bill was passed by Dáil Éireann on 18th June 2018 and is currently at the final stage in the Dáil before it is referred to the Seanad.

In addition, the entitlement to take parental leave currently ends on the child's 8th birthday; however the Bill provides that the entitlement to parental leave will end on the child's 12th birthday.