Dads to get more leave to help with parenting

SINGAPORE — In line with the Government’s recent moves to help dads share the parenting load, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced that paternity leave entitlement will be doubled to two weeks, albeit on a voluntary basis first.

The additional week they can get, should their employers opt in, will also be paid for by the Government, said Mr Lee last night (Aug 23). He added that the Public Service will take the lead in offering the option straightaway.

The change will apply from Jan 1 this year, to include babies born in the Republic’s Jubilee year. “Fathers play a vital role in bringing up children. You have to do your part. It is not just the mother’s responsibility to care for and raise your children,” said Mr Lee.

Since May 2013, fathers are entitled to one week of paternity leave — either taken at one go in the babies’ first 16 weeks or spread out in their children’s first year. They can also take one week from their wives’ 16 weeks of maternity leave.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Grace Fu said the measure is not made mandatory for now because of the tight labour market.

“We understand that there will be some adjustments needed so we hope that more will come on board when they have gotten themselves ready,” she added.