Sue MORONEY

Social Development Spokesperson

11 December  2013                MEDIA STATEMENT  

Paid parental leave extension back on table

After an 11th hour request, Labour has agreed to delay the reporting back of Sue Moroney’s Member’s Bill to extend paid parental leave to enable the Government to reconsider its position.

“National approached Labour after the weight of public opinion convinced them to rethink its threat of using a financial veto to scupper the Bill which would extend paid parental leave to six months,” Sue Moroney says.

“I have said from the outset I was prepared to find a way to make life easier for hardworking Kiwi families.

“The Government’s opposition has gone against strong public and Parliamentary support and I hope National will take this opportunity to give parents more precious time with their new babies.

“The Bill will now be reported back from the Government Administration Select Committee by 28 February, 2014.

“I hope National MPs will use the summer break with their families to reflect on how Labour’s proposal to extend parental support will help mums and dads bond with their babies in the crucial early months.

“Labour is focused on making changes which make a real difference to people’s lives,” Sue Moroney says.

ENDS

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