Media statement
For immediate release
Tuesday, 28 August 2007

Parental leave benefits all

A Families Commission report that recommends extending paid parental leave has been greeted with enthusiasm by UnitedFuture deputy leader, Judy Turner.

"There is a need for longer parental leave to be available and for paternity leave to be offered to new fathers. Both of these suggestions are necessary and should be actioned by the Government.

"A recent review of parental leave showed that fathers are not generally accessing any parental leave entitlement to allow them to spend time with their new families.

"The addition of four weeks paternity leave would be of huge benefit to fathers, mothers and children.

"Enabling infants to be cared for by their parents during that first year would improve family stability, reduce child poverty and lay a foundation that is sure to reduce incidents of child abuse.

"Everybody says we need to do more to protect our children, create better parenting and strengthen young families - well it's time to put our money where our mouths are.

"Whether we really care about families in this country, or whether the Government merely pays lip-service to attract voters will be seen by the Government's response to this report," says Mrs Turner.

"UnitedFuture has always championed family friendly policies, and strongly supports extending parental leave and establishing paternity leave.

"It will be telling to see what support there is from other political parties. Let's draw up the legislation and see whether National or Labour will support it," says Mrs Turner.

ENDS

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