New EU rules on paternity leave one step closer to becoming law

The directive piloted by David Casa pushing for a better work-life balance is approved by the European Parliament’s social affairs committee

PN MEP David Casa's directive proposing more paternity leave and other rights is one step away from becoming EU law
PN MEP David Casa's directive proposing more paternity leave and other rights is one step away from becoming EU law

A directive proposing an increase in paternity leave is one step closer to becoming law after the legislation piloted by David Casa was approved by the social affairs committee.

The final vote on the directive is expected to be taken by the European Parliament in plenary in Strasbourg in a few weeks’ time.

The Nationalist MEP’s legislative proposal as agreed with the Council was approved by 31 votes in favour and three against on Tuesday in the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs.

Once the directive gets the final go-ahead by MEPs, it will have to be transposed by member states within three years.

“It is extremely positive that we have secured a strong majority in the Committee and it augurs well for the final vote that should take place in a few weeks in the plenary in Strasbourg," Casa said.

The PN MEP said that the law addressed gender equality and was part of the drive toward a more social Europe.

The directive will introduce 10 days of paid paternity leave, and out the four months of parental leave for each parent, two months will now be paid and non-transferrable between parents.

This law will also provide for five days of annual carers leave and the right to request flexible working arrangements.

Casa said Malta was one of the member states that stood to benefit the most from the directive.

“The directive will play a vital role in reducing the gender employment, pay and pension gaps. It will be good for women, good for fathers, good for business and good for the economy. These rights should be regarded as social services and the cost borne by the government, particularly to prevent any possible disruption to business and in particular SMEs in the short term,” he said.