Stagecoach launches new paid maternity leave p

Media release from Stagecoach New Zealand

6 April 2001

Stagecoach launches new paid maternity leave programme

Stagecoach New Zealand has today launched its new paid maternity leave scheme called 'First Steps'.

Executive Chairman of Stagecoach New Zealand, Ross Martin said, "First steps is an initiative that makes good business sense and demonstrates our commitment to staff and their families. Stagecoach New Zealand believes that paid maternity leave is an investment in the next generation of New Zealanders and will ultimately benefit everyone involved," Mr Martin said.

Stagecoach payroll supervisor and mum to be, Leanne Macdonald, also emphasized the value of paid maternity leave. "Paid maternity leave helps create greater financial certainty for parents at a time when they need to take leave. It's great for Stagecoach staff to see the company pursue such a worthwhile initiative," she says.

First Steps will provide female Stagecoach staff with four weeks paid leave before the birth of her child and 4 weeks paid leave after the child is born if the mother returns to Stagecoach employment within one year of birth. This leave entitlement extends the provisions available to Stagecoach staff under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act.

In the event that both parents work for the company, fathers working for Stagecoach New Zealand can share two weeks of the paid leave.

The company also provides 'The Stork Report' to employees on parental leave to ensure that staff are kept up to date with developments within the company. First Steps also provides advice on childcare and additional support at the time of returning to work.

ends For further information please contact: Ross Martin Executive Chairman Stagecoach New Zealand Ph: (04) 802-4100

© Scoop Media