Galway TD Claire Kerrane has called for the government to extend parental support measures to parents of children born through surrogacy.
The Sinn Féin TD said that parents of babies born through surrogacy are currently not entitled to Maternity Benefit or Parent’s Leave and Benefit.
“It is so important that all parents have the opportunity to take time off from work to spend with their baby and that in that time they are supported financially by the Social Protection system.
“The fact that this opportunity is not afforded to those who have a baby through surrogacy is totally unacceptable. This has to change,” Claire Kerrane said.
The Galway-Roscommon TD said that she has contacted the Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys to ask why these parents are excluded from paid parental supports, and for legislation to be amended to correct it.
“We need to have parental supports in place for parents and families that are inclusive. I will be pushing this matter with the Minister and I hope for a positive response.”
