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

GovernmentIreland

Official 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

GovernmentIreland

Apply 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

GovernmentIreland

Guide 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

GovernmentIreland

Apply 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

HealthIreland

Health Service Executive resources for fathers and partners during pregnancy and early parenthood, including mental health, bonding, and practical guidance.

Treoir

Legal SupportIreland

National organisation providing information and support to unmarried parents in Ireland, including fathers' rights, guardianship, custody, and access.

Aware: Mental Health Support

Mental HealthIreland

Irish charity providing support, education, and information for people affected by depression and anxiety, including fathers. Free support line: 1800 80 48 48.

Barnardos Ireland

CharityIreland

Ireland'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.
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