Legislation will be brought forward to ensure that women undergoing treatment for cancer or other serious illnesses will not be forced to use maternity leave during their illness.

Changes will also see introduction of a statutory right to maternity leave for members of the Oireachtas.

Roderic O’Gorman (Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth) welcomed (July 24), approval by the Government of the drafting of a Maternity Protection (Amendment) and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2024.

It also brings in restrictions on the use of non-disclosure agreements in cases of discrimination and harassment.

The legislation will allow mothers who require treatment for a very serious illness to postpone their maternity leave for a period of time.

'Important time'

O’Gorman said: “Maternity leave is such an important time for mothers and their babies, and so no one should be forced to use that time for undergoing medical treatment.

“The legislation approved today will mean that, where necessary, mothers will be able to postpone their maternity leave, focus on their treatment, and retain that precious time with their baby.

He added: “These amendments will also introduce maternity leave for members of the Oireachtas. This is a vital equality entitlement to make sure women who have a baby are able to fully participate in political life.”

The General Scheme will now be referred to the Office of the Attorney General for drafting.