National list MP, Katherine Rich, is on leave for up to two months for the purpose of nurturing her child born in May. While she’s at home, she’ll continue to be paid $1,673 per week by the taxpayers.

This case has vividly illustrated the inequity (not to say iniquity) of paid “parental leave”.

Who contributes more by taking leave from the paid workforce to care for a baby – the woman who works as a Member of Parliament or the woman who works as an apple packer? Clearly, their contribution is identical. Then why should the one be rewarded to the extent of $1,673 per week and the other be rewarded to the extent of only, say, $300 per week?

Has all commitment to justice been driven from this small community that used to pride itself in giving everyone a fair go?

If not, the advocates of paid “parental leave” will acknowledge the need to remunerate equally all mothers who stay home to look after their children.

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