Debate contribution: Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay (Miscarriage) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026

Debate contribution by Miss Jemma Dolan on 24 March 2026.

MLA: Miss Jemma Dolan
Party at the time: Sinn Féin
Date: 24 March 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Executive Committee Business
Heading: Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay (Miscarriage) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5463666

Text

I welcome and commend the Economy Minister's confirmation of paid miscarriage leave for parents. It is not simply a policy change; it is a recognition of something deeply human. It acknowledges a loss that has too often gone unseen, unspoken and unsupported. The provision of statutory miscarriage leave and pay is a welcome extension of workplace rights for parents at a time when they have experienced heartbreaking loss. Miscarriage is not rare. It touches countless families — partners, mothers and fathers — yet, for generations, it has been wrapped in silence. The charity Sands estimates that about one in five pregnancies ends in miscarriage. For too long, people have been expected to carry on, to return to work and to function as though nothing has happened, all while grieving a profound and personal loss. That expectation was never fair or compassionate. Today, we take a meaningful step towards changing that. The provision will ensure that parents who experience miscarriage are afforded the same protections as those who lose a child under the age of 18 or who experience stillbirth. Eligibility and accessibility are key to making that a reality. The inclusion of provision for self-declaration, entitlement from the first day of employment and a 56-day window in which to take the leave ensures that there are no unnecessary barriers to accessing the support. It is no surprise that the introduction of a measure such as this received overwhelming support in the consultation, with 95% of respondents agreeing that parental bereavement leave should be extended in this way. That reflects a clear and shared understanding across society that more must be done to support those experiencing loss. The provision sends the clear message that grief deserves space, healing takes time, and no one should have to choose between their livelihood and their loss. For many, it will mean the difference between suffering in silence and being given more time and respect to process what they are going through. It will mean that employers are guided by empathy as well as policy. We should recognise the courage of those who have shared their stories, often at great personal cost, to bring us to this point. Their voices have helped us to break down stigma and have driven real, tangible change. Like the baby loss certificate scheme, these regulations are rooted in compassion and will have a meaningful impact on people in our communities. Today, we take an important step forward — a step rooted in kindness and respect and that reflects the kind of society that we all want to build. I welcome the measure — I commend the Minister — and support it wholeheartedly. I hope that it brings some comfort to those who need it most.

456 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Assessment

Awaiting analysis

This record has not been analysed yet. It is not counted in any total until it has been assessed.

Disagree with this assessment?

Classifications can be challenged. A person reviews every challenge, and any change is recorded publicly above with its reason.

Challenge this classification