According to The Journal, Labour has unveiled an ambitious election manifesto that puts working parents and healthcare at its forefront, promising to revolutionize maternity benefits and expand free medical care for children.
The party’s standout proposal would link maternity payments to mothers’ salaries, replacing the current flat rate of €274 weekly. This system would mirror recently approved changes to jobseekers’ allowance, helping prevent significant income drops during maternity leave.
Labour’s family-focused agenda also includes extending paid parental leave to a full year, significantly expanding the current 46-week allowance available to new parents.
In healthcare, the party pledges to create 5,000 new hospital beds within five years and introduce universal free GP care for children. The manifesto also addresses housing challenges, proposing to utilize HSE-owned land to build homes for essential workers, particularly in urban areas.
Two new government departments feature in the plans: a Department of Digital Communications focusing on AI regulation and EU digital transition, and a Department for Reunification to explore the process of Irish unity.
The comprehensive package aims to leverage Ireland’s wealth to address persistent social challenges, marking Labour’s vision for the country’s future.