Maternity Benefit for Contractors

Hi all, new to the forum - thanks in advance for any help.

I work in England and hoping to move back to Ireland soon. Main driver is to start a family at home but want to get settled in first! I plan on contracting. I haven't lived in Ireland for years so haven't been paying PRSI. I've seen some information online but still a little confused. Could someone explain to me how long I need to be working as a contractor before I can claim any maternity benefit?

Looking forward to getting back! Missed ye!

I'm assuming you're the woman in question.
Due to your status as a "contractor" and because you have worked abroad, albeit in UK where PRSI payments are counted (-except ONE which must have been got in Ireland an the period leading to expected birth) your case is slightly different from most.

Up-to-date accurate info is most easily read on citizensinformation.ie where the rules are simply laid out.

Thanks Nick will check it out