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NLIS 5
December 7, 2000
(Environment and Labour)

 

The following statement was issued today by Oliver Langdon, Minister of Environment and Labour. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I rise today to inform honourable members that I will be tabling legislation today to amend the parental leave provision of the Labour Standards Act. This amendment will give parents the option of staying home for up to a year to care for their newborns and adopted children.

As honourable members are aware, earlier this year the federal government amended the Employment Insurance Act to provide a maximum of 50 weeks combined maternity and parental benefits, after a two week waiting period, rather than the current 25 week maximum.

This change is effective December 31, 2000 and I am tabling the legislation to ensure that the people of our province are able to access federal benefits at that time. In fact, Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the first provinces in Canada to formally announce that amendments will be made to legislation to be consistent with federal provisions.

Currently, under the Labour Standards Act, parents are entitled to 12 weeks of parental leave. Amending the Act will increase the parental leave provision to 35 weeks. This change, combined with the current 17 week leave provisions provided for maternity and adoption, will enable parents to take up to one year off with the sound knowledge that they will not lose their job.

Government is fully committed to ensuring adequate labour standards which address the needs or workers and employers. We also recognize the need for parents to have the opportunity to provide much needed care and nurturing during the crucial first year of life. Amending the parental leave provision of our Labour Standards Act will allow parents to take responsibility for their child or children, without the worry of losing employment and I trust honourable members will work with me to ensure that the amendment is passed.

2000 12 07                   1:55 p.m.



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