Nigel asks "How many weeks am I entitled for paternity leave?"


Hi Nigel, You are entitled to 2 weeks paternity leave which must be taken consecutively. You may begin paternity leave at any time within the first 6 months following the birth or adoption of a child.

All employees (including casual workers), regardless of how long you have been working for the organisation or the number of hours worked per week, are eligible.

Your employer is not obliged to pay you for paternity leave although your contract could provide for additional rights to payment during the leave period. You may qualify for Paternity Benefit of €245 (weekly) if you have enough PRSI contributions.