Activists welcome bill that could usher in paternity leave
Gender equality activists have welcomed the passing of bill that could see fathers getting up to 10 days paternity leave.
The Labour Laws Amendment Bill, which was proposed by African Christian Democratic Party MP Cheryllyn Dudley, was passed on Tuesday by the National Assembly.
The bill also makes provisions for adoptive parents, surrogates and same-sex couples to have access to parental leave.
Spokesperson for Sonke Gender Justice Patrick Godana says this is a breakthrough for all responsible parents.
"During delivery you are entitled to those 10 days so that you can be with your partner and emotionally connect with your child. For same-sex couple the benefits are the same, we do not look at your sexuality but you are a person and you are entitled to these rights that have been fought for," he said.
The bill will only become law if the other house of Parliament, the NCOP, adopts it and President Jacob Zuma signs it.
The bill also makes provisions for adoptive parents, surrogates and same-sex couples to have access to parental leave.
Spokesperson for Sonke Gender Justice Patrick Godana says this is a breakthrough for all responsible parents.
"During delivery you are entitled to those 10 days so that you can be with your partner and emotionally connect with your child. For same-sex couple the benefits are the same, we do not look at your sexuality but you are a person and you are entitled to these rights that have been fought for," he said.
The bill will only become law if the other house of Parliament, the NCOP, adopts it and President Jacob Zuma signs it.