EU to consider extending paid maternity leave

The European Parliament Women’s Rights Committee has voted in favour of extending the minimum period of maternity leave in the EU from 14 to 20 weeks on full pay.  The 20-week proposals are to go before the full European Parliament this month and are likely to face stiff opposition from member states.

Current European rules give women 14 weeks leave with pay for the duration to be no less than sick pay in the member state concerned.

In the UK women are entitled to a year off work with the first six weeks at 90% of the employee’s normal weekly earnings, followed by 33 weeks at the current prescribed rate of £123.06 a week (55% higher than sick pay).  The rest is unpaid. 

Lord Young of Norwood Green, the UK’s Employment Relations Minister, expressed his doubts about the proposals, reportedly saying: “we already have a generous system which is better than many EU countries and works well, balancing the needs of business and workers”. 

UK business groups have also raised concerns about the additional cost to companies of extra maternity payments at this time.

With the economic climate as it is, and fears being voiced that the proposals may have a reverse effect and actually discourage employers from taking women of a child-bearing age on, it is unlikely that the proposals will be passed.

For further information contact Melissa Edmond, Employment Law Solicitor.