Calls to introduce paid leave for miscarriages before 24 weeks

Paid miscarriage leave should be introduced in Ireland

The petition was launched by Jessica Bourke, who is calling on the Government to acknowledge the trauma women go through following a miscarriage.

Jessica shared: "Eighteen years ago, I held my breath in fear of losing our unborn child to miscarriage. It was a terrifying encounter that deeply affected my family and me, and since then, it has been my mission to alleviate this suffering for others on their fertility journey.

"Miscarriage is not only a physical ordeal but also a heavy emotional burden. The mental health implications can be severe."

In the UK, parents are offered paid leave for two weeks when there is a miscarriage before 24 weeks.

Jessica believes Irish families going through this turmoil deserve the same.

"Recognizing the depth of grief born out of pregnancy loss is a significant step towards empathetic and fair legislation. However, it saddens me that in our country, people are still expected to use their sick leave to cope with the weight of their loss."

The introduction of paid miscarriage leave would undoubtedly help those suffering from such a devastating loss.

No woman should have to use sick leave to grieve the loss of her child.

Jessica believes providing paid leave after a miscarriage could help reduce the mental distress these women are facing.

She shared: "For the well-being of parents, for the recognition of their pain, for a society that acknowledges pregnancy loss as a valid grief that needs time and space for mourning, let's ask our government to follow the UK's example and establish a law that grants paid leave for those who go through a miscarriage before 24 weeks."

The public has been encouraged to sign the petition and help make this vital change in Ireland.

You can sign the petition here.

Anyone affected by this article can reach out to Anam Cara for support at 087 9637790.