Following months of diplomatic work, earlier this week the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers have finally reached an agreement on the new Work-Life Balance Directive, a crucial directive for workers’ quality of life across Europe.

Among the positive rights proposed in this Directive is the introduction of ten days of paid paternity leave.

Despite cries to the contrary by some, the introduction of a ten day minimum for paternity leave is no radical or extreme notion. To put the matter in some context, Portugal already gives new fathers 20 days of fully paid paternity leave. Finnish fathers enjoy a whopping 54 working days of paternity leave.

Maltese dads? One measly day.

Parents everywhere will tell you that one year is not enough to get used to the lifestyle change that a new-born brings about, let alone a day off from work. A baby brings joy and laughter, but a baby also brings hard work, long nights, and a truckload of new responsibilities. This directive is but one small step towards recognising the workload of parents in employment.

I advise those who have spoken out against this measure to put their money where their mouth is, and truly endorse family-friendly measures in practice. Endorsing and pledging to implement this directive is the best way to do so. I consider the provision of family-friendly measures, as essential to corporate social responbility.

An increase in paternity leave, together with the other rights included in this directive, will lead to workers who are more productive and motivated to give their best work. It will also encourage them to remain at their current place of work for longer, increasing stability in the employment market.

Those stressed-out parents, juggling home emergencies at work, while taking their work at home with them, will be given the means to improve their hectic schedules. The personal life of every individual, but especially parents, requires and deserves more time and attention. The employer, in return, will have a greater peace of mind knowing that the work performed is of higher quality.   

To view paternity leave as a financial burden for an employer is short-sighted to say the least. In the long-term, this will invariably result in an increase in the workforce, and a more competent workforce too. Adjusting family roles allows women to reach their full professional potential, and finally eradicate the stereotypical gender roles which are so thoroughly ingrained in our collective mentality.

Last but not least, there is one central individual who will benefit from this change – the child. Happier, more present parents means happier children, and eventually, a healthier generation who will grow to lead our society when our time is over. This is the true range of the long-term benefit this directive, and others following it, will bring about.

I for one look forward to a positive vote in the European Parliament’s next plenary, and to the process to translate this fundamental right to national legislation and practice.

 

Dr Josianne Cutajar is a PL candidate for EP elections