Do dads not take enough paternity leave? - Henry McKean Asks
Summary
This episode of The Hard Shoulder explores the complexities of paternity leave in Ireland, sparked by Simon Harris’s recent announcement. Hosts Keira Kelly and Shane Coleman discuss the financial barriers preventing many fathers from taking time off, noting that only half of dads avail of leave due to income loss. The segment features interviews with various fathers, including a seaman and a civil servant, alongside MEP Adon O’Riordan, who highlights the lack of legislative support for parents facing premature births or pregnancy loss.
Topics discussed
Intro: Simon Harris welcomes daughter and discusses paternity leave
Henry McKean introduces report on fathers and leave challenges
Street interviews: Dads discuss support needs and self-employment
Interviews with older generation dads who missed early days
Political perspective: MEP Adon O'Riordan on parental leave
Civil service vs private sector: Financial barriers to leave
Interview with Adam: A civil servant's experience with leave
Hosts share personal stories: Shane and Henry's regrets
Outro: Call to action for listener feedback
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