Paternity Benefit now available to new fathers - Varadkar urges new and prospective parents to apply
Foilsithe
An t-eolas is déanaí
Teanga: Níl leagan Gaeilge den mhír seo ar fáil.
Foilsithe
An t-eolas is déanaí
Teanga: Níl leagan Gaeilge den mhír seo ar fáil.
Paternity Benefit is now available from the Department of Social Protection to parents of children born or placed in adoption from 1 September, and Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar has urged all eligible parents to apply.
Commenting on this new measure, Minister for Social Protection, Leo Varadkar said:
"I want to ensure that all eligible parents know that they can now apply for their two weeks of Paternity Benefit, when they take formal paternity leave. I’m especially delighted to bring in this measure which gives fathers more opportunities to take an active role in the early stages of their child’s life, and give the best start possible. I’m also pleased that self-employed fathers will benefit, by having a guaranteed minimum income for the first time during paternity leave."
Paternity Benefit is available at a minimum rate of €230 per week for two weeks for employees and self-employed people who are on Paternity Leave from work. It is available for up to 26 weeks after the child’s birth or adoption placement, and it is also available to same sex couples.
New parents have the option to apply online for Paternity Benefit (and will need a Public Services Card to do this). Alternatively they can download an application form from the department’s website or by calling 1890 66 22 44. This is to facilitate quick and easy access in this introductory phase of the scheme.
In order to qualify for Paternity Benefit, applicants must satisfy social insurance contribution conditions. The scheme is available to employees paying PRSI Class A, E or H contributions and to self-employed people paying PRSI Class S contributions.
Employees will need to give four weeks’ notice to their employer to qualify for the accompanying Paternity Leave.
Full information on Paternity Benefit and how to apply for the Public Services Card is available online www.welfare.ie.
ENDS