Unpaid maternity leave - PRSI stamps

sandrat said:

I thought you were meant to be treated as if you were in employment when on maternity leave? Does the same rule apply for parental leave?

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Social insurance contributions

The Minister for Social and Family Affairs has introduced Regulations to ensure preservation of social insurance (PRSI) records for employees who take parental leave. In such circumstances, employees should contact the Records Section of the Department of Social and Family Affairs to ensure that appropriate credits are made. (See "Where to apply" below.)

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PRSI contributions: you will automatically be awarded PRSI credits while you are getting Maternity Benefit. If you avail of unpaid additional maternity leave you must get your employer to complete an application for maternity leave 'credits' found in the Department of Social and Family Affairs information booklet SW 11 (pdf), after you return to work.
If you are breastfeeding you may be entitled to some time off or a reduction in hours without loss of pay for up to 26 weeks after the birth.
If you decide not to return to work after your period of maternity leave, you are required to give your employer notice in the usual manner.
You are protected against unfair dismissal for claiming your rights under maternity protection legislation - see 'How to apply' below

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