Don't play politics with babies and families today

Lobby group 26 for Babies is urging National not to play politics on a bill to extend paid parental leave when it comes up for further deliberations today.

“The changes in Budget 2014 provided for an increase to paid parental leave over the next two years, but Sue Moroney’s bill is a long term plan for the future. The public are right behind the proposal to ensure parents have at least six months at home with a new baby, and National must not block the bill’s progress,” said 26 for Babies spokesperson Rebecca Matthews.

If Sue Moroney’s bill completes its committee stages today, it will be set down for third and final reading on July 23, the final members' day of this Parliament.

Rebecca Matthews urged the government to not try and prevent it coming up for a final vote before the election.

“Sue Moroney’s bill is a popular initiative. It has the support of a majority of MPs in the House, it was strongly backed by submitters at select committee and has been warmly welcomed by the public.”

“This strong public support prompted good progress to be made in the 2014 Budget, with an additional four weeks provided for. But this is just a start.”

“Its time to deliver on 26 weeks paid parental leave, to ensure New Zealand children have the best possible start with their parents. National should not stand in the way of this bill,” Rebecca Matthews said.

Ends.

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