Social Security Minister Judy Martin has lodged a draft law with the States that extends family friendly employment rights, and gives adoptive and surrogate parents the same rights as other parents.
The proposals, which follow recommendations from the Employment Forum in December 2017, also include time off work to attend appointments for adoptive and surrogate parents, breastfeeding rights – including breaks and workplace facilities, and paid leave, where necessary, on health and safety grounds for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Deputy Martin said: ‘This extension of employment rights is progressive and inclusive. Our proposed changes to the law follow consultation with employers and employees, undertaken by the Employment Forum in 2017.
‘We want to improve the situation for parents in the workplace, giving families more choice and flexibility to help meet their work and family responsibilities. The changes we are proposing will also encourage gender balance in childcare roles.’
The proposal is due to be debated on 26 March and, if approved, the law would come into force on 1 September.
