Legislation to defer maternity leave for women with mental and physical illness welcomed, but long overdue – Ardagh

Fianna Fáil Senator, Catherine Ardagh has welcomed legislation being brought before Cabinet on Wednesday by Minister O'Gorman that will allow women to defer their maternity leave if diagnosed with physical and mental illness during pregnancy.

Senator Ardagh launched The Health (Postponement of Certain Leave) Bill 2024 in the Seanad this year and has been a big advocate for women's rights to defer maternity leave especially if diagnosed with a physical illness such as cancer.

"I am glad to hear that Minister O'Gorman is bringing this Bill before Cabinet this week. I have been an advocate for a very long time on allowing women who are diagnosed with physical illnesses such as cancer during pregnancy to defer their maternity leave."

"I have worked tirelessly on this matter, and this Bill well help implement and support the Irish Cancer Society's campaign 'Leave our Leave' which calls for the deferral of maternity leave for cancer patients who are receiving chemotherapy during pregnancy."

The Irish Cancer Society says 60 women in Ireland go through a diagnosis of cancer every year either during pregnancy or post-partum. This Bill will be of great help to women right across the country, and signals that the state has their back, says Senator Ardagh.

"Going through a cancer diagnosis is something none of us ever want to go through. It is an awful hard time for many people and if we can take one less worry away from someone going through it then we should."

"Unfortunately, an estimated 42,000 people are diagnosed every year in Ireland, and every year 60 women are diagnosed during pregnancy or post-partum. I am really passionate about this piece of legislation, and I welcome this being brought to Cabinet on Wednesday, although I believe it is long overdue."

"To the women of Ireland, I want them to feel that the state has their back, and I believe this vital piece of legislation, upon approval by Cabinet will be a comfort to many women and families right across the country."

ENDS

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