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Paid miscarriage leave is to come into effect in Northern Ireland from today 6 April, following confirmation from Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald. The scheme is expected to support thousands of parents each year.
The new entitlement will offer two weeks of paid leave to parents who experience a miscarriage. Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins welcomed the announcement, describing it as a progressive and compassionate step that makes the north one of the first places in Europe to offer this form of support.
Kimmins said: "A miscarriage is one of the most devastating experiences any parent can face, causing untold pain and suffering. In addition to the Baby Loss Certificate scheme introduced by Finance Minister John O'Dowd, the news regarding miscarriage leave this week from Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald is warmly welcomed and will help provide some solace to parents during one of the most difficult periods in their lives."
She added that Sinn Féin would continue working to extend support for parents, including bringing forward paid leave during neonatal care as part of the Good Jobs Bill.
The miscarriage leave scheme comes alongside the Baby Loss Certificate scheme introduced by Finance Minister John O'Dowd, with both measures forming part of a wider effort to provide support to bereaved parents in the north.
