Fine Gael TD for Wicklow , Andrew Doyle , has said that Wicklow Dads are continuing to benefit from the Government’s paid paternity benefit scheme with 692 availing of it in 2018.
Minister Doyle said: “I’m delighted to see the continued success of this scheme. Uptake for paternity benefit has been steady throughout the year and I hope to see the trend continue in 2019.
“The scheme has benefited thousands of Dads across the country with 692 availing in Wicklow last year.
“The current rate of Paternity Benefit is €240 per week. Following Budget 2019, this will increase to €245 per week from the week beginning 25 March 2019.
“I am encouraging prospective fathers to sign up for Paternity Benefit. The application process is clear and simple. New Dads will require a Public Service Card in order to apply, and if they are an employee, they need to give four weeks’ notice to their employer to qualify for the accompanying Paternity Leave.
“Fathers who fulfil the PRSI requirements are eligible for Paternity Benefit when they take two weeks of Paternity Leave at any time within the first 26 weeks of their child’s life, or following adoption.
“All the information on how to apply for Paternity Leave, and how to get your Public Service Card, is available at www.welfare.ie/
“Fine Gael in Government is committed to helping hard pressed working families and will continue to pursue a number of family friendly childcare options including subsidised high quality childcare, the opening up of our schools to provide aftercare and support for parents who choose to stay at home and care for their children,” the Fine Gael TD said.
