The government has launched a consultation process on miscarriage leave.

The process is led by the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Andy Ellul, who brought together individuals from different sectors of society to discuss the introduction of miscarriage leave on Wednesday.

From the medical community, psychologists, psychiatrists, trade unions, and employers' associations, to individuals who have experienced miscarriage and spoken openly about it - "all were invited to share their opinions and experiences, so that the government can responsibly shape the miscarriage leave policy," a government statement read. 

"An important fact emerged from these discussions: although official statistics show that there are around 300 miscarriages per year in Malta, in reality, the number may reach up to 1,000 annually due to various circumstances that result in not every case being officially recorded."

It was for this reason that, on International Women's Day, the Prime Minister announced the start of discussions on Miscarriage Leave, with the aim of strengthening workers' rights. These discussions began under the coordination of the Parliamentary Secretariat for Social Dialogue. Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul announced that, in the case of this measure, the Government will be covering all financial costs associated with its implementation. 

"Malta must continue to lead in protecting the dignity of workers. This is a national initiative being undertaken for the benefit of all Maltese and Gozitan couples. The state must show it stands behind these couples during such difficult moments," said the Parliamentary Secretary.

He mentioned that discussions need to take place on various aspects, including whether this leave should also apply to the prospective father or the second parent in the case of same-sex couples. Another aspect is whether a woman should have the right to keep her pregnancy private and decide herself when to inform her employer that she is pregnant. The same applies to employers' rights and how they can ensure a safe environment before knowing that an employee is expecting, the government said.

"Our ultimate goal is to ensure that no one feels alone during such a difficult time. We are committed to creating a policy that helps, supports, and provides the appropriate time to grieve for those affected. Because workers and their families remain at the heart of our social policy," Parliamentary Secretary Ellul said.

This discussion was one of a series of talks that will be held regarding the introduction of miscarriage leave.

PL statement

The Labour Party, in a statement, welcomed the start of the public consultation process that will take place so that the Government will decide how miscarriage leave should enter into force.

"This leave is necessary for those who suffer a miscarriage because the days after the mother and father go through these circumstances, they will need psychological support and appropriate time until they recover from this trauma. Such measures reflect a key principle related to the Labour Party which is of social conscience and this is why the party agrees with such measures which will further strengthen workers' rights, even more so when today it was also announced that the Government will be financing the miscarriage leave," the PL said.

The Labour Party agrees that prior to the introduction of this right, a discussion has started and will continue with the participation of social partners, constituted bodies and civil society.

"The response to the conference held earlier today by Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul testifies the need for this measure, which should reflect the needs of those affected and their employer, in order to reach a compromise on its implementation. "

The Labour Party said it has no doubt that with social dialogue and public participation in the consultation process, "the government will take another bold decision in the national interest to achieve a work-life balance."