In a press conference, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul presented the Government’s proposals in relation to Miscarriage Leave.
The Parliamentary Secretary said that the leave for women who miscarry before 22 weeks of pregnancy is proposed to be seven consecutive days. The leave will be paid in full by the Government so as not to put financial pressure on employers.
Leave payment will be based on the median wage, which amounts to just over double the national minimum wage.
The parliamentary secretary added that this leave will not only apply to the woman, but also to her partner equally, including in same-sex couples.
The leave will apply to both civil servants and public sector workers, as well as those working in the private sector. It will also apply to employment agency workers and the self-employed, who will also benefit from the same conditions. Part-time workers will also be granted leave, but on a pro-rata basis.
Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul further explained that in order for a woman to apply for Miscarriage Leave, she only needs a medical certificate from her gynaecologist, and that it is not necessary for the certificate to include details about the case. The same certificate can be used by the woman’s partner to apply for the same leave.
Dr Ellul added that privacy is crucial. Therefore, specific guidelines will be launched so that employers have a model on how to handle these cases with respect, dignity and confidentiality. He added that workers who make use of this leave will have the right to return to their role, without prejudice or loss of conditions at the workplace. They will also be eligible for the leave even if they have not informed their workplace of the pregnancy.
The Government recognises that in addition to the physical trauma, when a miscarriage occurs the couple also goes through psychological trauma. Therefore, they will be offered psychological support and assistance to begin to alleviate some of the trauma they are going through.
Finally, the Parliamentary Secretary added that an anonymous national register will be set up to monitor the taking of this leave. This is with the aim of the Government having real figures in hand through which, if the need arises, it can continue to build on this measure.
Dr Ellul explained that all this came after a wide public consultation that took place. Among others, national conferences were held during which medical experts, workers, employers, families, and more importantly, people who have gone through this trauma made their voices heard.
Parliamentary Secretary Ellul concluded by saying that the economic growth that the country is experiencing is leading to the implementation of measures of this type in favour of social justice. A measure that will serve as emotional and even financial support for couples. It is also a testament to the social values of the Government, which wants to lead a country forward where laws reflect real life and everyday situations, and where recovery from such delicate situations has its place carved out in the world of work.
Photo: OPM_PS
