To: The Government
Grandparents in Ireland need legal leave too!
Please introduce 4 weeks of unpaid, job-protected grandparent leave in the first 4 years of a grandchild’s life, to support families and recognise the vital role grandparents play.
Why is this important?
Grandparents are working longer, yet we have no legal right to take time off when grandchildren are born or during their early years. Too many of us are forced to use annual leave, miss once-in-a-lifetime milestones, or even call in sick just to be there for our families.
I am a grandmother of three, including a newborn in Australia. Without any statutory leave, I had to juggle work just to visit and support my family. Many grandparents across Ireland face the same struggle.
I am a grandmother of three, including a newborn in Australia. Without any statutory leave, I had to juggle work just to visit and support my family. Many grandparents across Ireland face the same struggle.
This campaign matters because:
- Families need support: Grandparents are often the extra pair of hands that help parents cope, especially in the early years.
- Health & wellbeing: Research shows grandparent involvement reduces stress and helps prevent postnatal depression in parents.
- Fairness: With the State Pension age rising, many grandparents are still employed when grandchildren arrive — yet they have no legal protections.
- Common sense for employers: Clear entitlements avoid unplanned absences and allow for workforce planning.
By joining this campaign, you are standing up for families, for grandparents, and for children — ensuring that Irish law recognises the vital role we play across generations.
