What is Parent’s Leave?

Parent’s Leave entitles each parent to seven weeks’ leave from work during the first two years of a child’s life, or in the case of adoption, within two years of the placement of the child with your family.

From 1 July 2022, Parent’s Leave increased from five weeks to seven weeks for:

* Parents of children born or adopted from 1 July 2022
* Parents of children who are under the age of two on 1 July 2022, or adoptive children who have been placed with their parents for less than two years on 1 July 2022
* Parents of children born between November 2019 and July 2020 are not eligible for the additional two weeks.

How can I get Parent's Leave?

To get Parent’s Leave, you must:

* Be a relevant parent
* Take the leave within two years of the birth of your child or in the case of adoption, from the date your child is placed with you (the placement date)
* Give at least six-weeks’ notice to your employer
 

If you are granted Parent’s Leave, you can take this as:

One continuous period, or separate periods of not less than one week at a time

How much will I get paid during Parent’s Leave?

If you have enough PRSI contributions, you will get a weekly payment of €250 per week. Some employers will top-up this payment, but they don’t have to.

Can my employer refuse my application for Parent’s Leave?

Your employer can only refuse Parent’s Leave if you are not entitled to it. However, your employer can postpone your Parent’s Leave for up to 12 weeks, for the following reasons:

* Seasonal variations in the volume of work
* No replacement to carry out your work
* The nature of your duties
* The number of other employees also taking Parent’s Leave

If you need further information about any of the issues raised here or you have other questions, you can call a member of the local Citizens Information Service in Kerry on 0818 07 7860. They will be happy to assist you and if necessary arrange an appointment for you.

Kerry HELPLINE 0818 07 7860 Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.

Alternatively you can email on tralee@citinfo.ie or log on to www.citizensinformation.ie.