Fatherhood Resources: Ireland
Official paternity leave and benefit guidance, parent's leave, and verified support for fathers across the Republic of Ireland.
2 weeks
Paternity Leave
Within 26 weeks of birth or adoption
9 weeks
Parent's Leave
Per parent, in first 2 years
€299/week
Paternity Benefit
Paid by Dept. of Social Protection
Verified Resources for Irish Dads
Citizens Information: Paternity Leave
Government IrelandOfficial Irish government guide to paternity leave: 2 weeks of statutory leave, eligibility, how to apply, and what happens if your employer refuses.
Gov.ie: Paternity Benefit
Government IrelandApply for Paternity Benefit through the Department of Social Protection. Paid at €299 per week for 2 weeks to eligible fathers and partners.
Citizens Information: Parent's Leave
Government IrelandGuide to Parent's Leave: 9 weeks of leave available to each parent for children born or adopted after 1 August 2024, taken any time in the first 2 years.
MyWelfare.ie: Parent's Benefit
Government IrelandApply for Parent's Benefit online. Paid at €299 per week during Parent's Leave for eligible employees and self-employed parents.
HSE: Dads and Partners
Health IrelandHealth Service Executive resources for fathers and partners during pregnancy and early parenthood, including mental health, bonding, and practical guidance.
Treoir
Legal Support IrelandNational organisation providing information and support to unmarried parents in Ireland, including fathers' rights, guardianship, custody, and access.
Aware: Mental Health Support
Mental Health IrelandIrish charity providing support, education, and information for people affected by depression and anxiety, including fathers. Free support line: 1800 80 48 48.
Barnardos Ireland
Charity IrelandIreland's leading children's charity, offering family support services, parenting programmes, and resources for fathers across Ireland.
Key facts for Irish fathers
- •Paternity Leave is 2 weeks, taken as a single block within 26 weeks of the birth or adoption. Paternity Benefit is paid at €299 per week by the Department of Social Protection.
- •Parent's Leave gives each parent 9 weeks of leave (for children born or adopted after 1 August 2024), taken any time in the first 2 years. Parent's Benefit is also €299 per week.
- •To qualify for Paternity Benefit, you need at least 39 weeks of PRSI contributions in the 12 months before the birth, or 39 weeks paid since first starting work.
- •Unmarried fathers do not automatically have guardianship rights in Ireland. Treoir provides free information on how to establish guardianship, custody, and access.
- •The HSE provides free antenatal and postnatal support for fathers and partners through public health nurses and GP services.