Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ghanaian Times
Published on 2024-02-29 07:25:07
Member of Parliament for Madina in the Greater Accra Region, Francis-Xavier Sosu, is taking a bold step by proposing a Private Member’s Bill for the extension of maternity leave from three to four months, as well as the introduction of paternal leave for men in Ghana. This move comes as a way to address gender inequalities and provide better support for families during the early stages of parenthood.
The Bill is currently being drafted at the Legislative Drafting Office of Parliament and will be submitted to the Speaker after thorough engagement with stakeholders. In addition to extending maternity leave and introducing paternal leave, the bill will also address issues related to abolishing taxes on sanitary pads, as currently, a 35% tax consisting of import duty and Value Added Tax is imposed on these essential products.
In an exclusive interview with the Ghanaian Times, Mr. Sosu emphasized the importance of amending the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) to better protect women during their maternity leave period. The proposed changes include extending maternity leave to four months, with an option for an additional two weeks in certain circumstances, such as caesarean delivery or stillbirth. The bill also includes provisions for paid paternal leave for men for a minimum of seven days and a maximum of four weeks, with the possibility of extensions in specific situations.
Mr. Sosu highlighted the significance of ensuring that men who are often left behind during childbirth also have the opportunity to take parental leave. He stressed that the proposed bill aims to provide better support for women in the workforce and prevent them from facing job insecurity due to pregnancy and childbirth. By implementing these changes, both men and women will have the opportunity to bond with their newborns and provide care and support during the crucial early months of their lives.
The Madina MP emphasized the changing dynamics of society, where traditional support systems from immediate family members may not always be available. He reiterated the need for proactive measures to ensure gender equality and family-friendly policies in the workplace.
Mr. Sosu expressed his determination to push for a just, free, and fair society by advocating for policies that promote gender equality and support families. He highlighted the collaborative efforts and support from various stakeholders, including institutions advocating for gender parity, in shaping the proposed bill on parental leave.
The journey towards implementing these changes began on October 23, 2023, and has seen significant progress with ongoing discussions, amendments, and proposals. The proposed bill represents a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for working parents in Ghana.
Overall, Mr. Sosu’s Private Member’s Bill reflects the commitment to advancing gender equality, empowering women in the workforce, and promoting parental leave policies that prioritize the well-being of families. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it has the potential to bring about positive changes that benefit both men and women in Ghana.
Read the original article on Ghanaian Times
