Today the new Work Life Balance Directive was signed into EU law, a statement issued by his office said. Member States will now transpose the directive in order to improve the quality of life of families, parents, workers and carers.

The new law was signed at the European Parliament in Brussels by European Parliament President Antonio Tajani, in the presence of Parliament’s rapporteur and lead negotiator MEP David Casa.

Speaking after President Tajani signed the directive into law, MEP Casa said: “All member states, including Malta, should start the process of introducing the rights catered for in the Work Life Balance Directive. These rights must be introduced within 3 years.  These include the introduction of 10 days of paid paternity leave, 2 months of paid parental leave, 5 days of annual carers leave and the right to request flexible working arrangements. This law will result in a direct investment in families across the EU. It will ensure a better sharing of caring responsibilities between men and women thus helping to reduce the gender employment, pay and pensions gaps”.

MEP Casa led negotiations on behalf of the European Parliament with the Council, to ensure that the new Work Life Balance Directive reflects today’s realities and ensures that the new rights do not leave a huge burden on businesses, especially SMEs. MEP Casa thanked European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility Marianne Thyssen for her cooperation during the negotiations.