Paternity leave

From 1 September 2016, fathers/partners are entitled to statutory paternity leave of two weeks together with Paternity Benefit. Health service employees will receive their full normal pay (less any social welfare entitlements, where applicable), for the two weeks. 

You can continue to receive Paternity Benefit for any period of your paternity leave spent in a country outside of the Republic of Ireland (EU and Non-EU). 

You have the right to job protection during maternity leave, additional maternity leave, paternity leave, health and safety leave, attendance at ante-natal and post-natal medical appointments,
attendance at ante-natal classes (described above) and breastfeeding breaks.

While on leave described above, including additional maternity leave, you are regarded as being in employment and therefore retain all employment rights, such as annual leave, public holidays, increments, seniority etc.  

In the case of adoption, paternity leave may be taken on or up to four weeks after the date of placement.

For further information on entitlements when adopting children see our Adoptive leave section