Bank of Ireland has introduced new family-friendly policies for employees.
Included in the measures are leave entitlements for surrogacy, early pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, and foster care.
The proposal also includes extended breastfeeding breaks and enhanced parental and partner leave.
In accordance with local legislation, the measures applicable to the bank’s 9,000 employees who are located in Ireland, the UK, the EU, and the US.
“As one of the largest employers in Ireland, we want to build a progressive workplace and contribute to a progressive society,” said Myles O’Grady, Group CEO, Bank of Ireland.
“This is also important for our business which competes hard to attract and retain the talent we need to serve our customers, support growing businesses, and also grow as a company,” Mr O’Grady said.
The Financial Services Union (FSU) has welcomed the Bank of Ireland agreement that would grant all employees a seven-week, fully compensated parental leave.
“Seven weeks fully paid parent’s leave will make a big difference to new parents, and it means they can spend more time at home with their young children without worrying about their earnings being impacted,” said Caitleen Desetti, Industrial Relations Organiser with the FSU.