Under the Civil Registration (Electronic Registration) Bill 2024, the definition of stillbirth has been updated to include a stillborn child from the 23rd week of pregnancy, it was previously the 24th week of pregnancy. The birth weight of the child has also been reduced from 500 grammes to 400 grammes.
The DE has updated the relevant information notes to reflect this legislative change.
- Paragraph 2.6 of the Maternity Leave Scheme is amended as follows:
‘In the event of a stillbirth, or miscarriage, any time after the 23rd week of pregnancy, or where the child has a birth weight of at least 400 grammes, full Maternity Leave entitlements apply.’
Click here for information note 10/2024.
- Paragraph 2.4 of the Paternity Leave Scheme is amended as follows:
‘In the event of a stillbirth, or miscarriage, any time after the 23rd week of pregnancy, or where the child has a birth weight of at least 400 grammes, full Paternity Leave entitlements apply.’
Click here for information note 12/2024.
A notification will also be placed on the bereavement leave circular 78/2022 to reflect this legislative change.