National has run out of reasons not to vote for paid parental leave bill

The 26 for Babies coalition is calling on National to vote Sue Moroney’s paid parental leave bill into law tonight. The Labour MP has substantially amended her bill to prioritise a smaller number of families.

“All new babies deserve their first six months at home with mum or dad,” said spokesperson Rebecca Matthews. “26 weeks paid parental leave is of such benefit to new babies that National should have always been willing to invest in it.”

“Longer paid parental leave for all families is still the goal, and we will get there. This policy is popular and no good evidence has been put up against it.”

“The evidence given by parents with multiple or premature births, and of babies with disabilities was very moving and strong in relation to this bill,” said Rebecca Matthews. “Moving them to six months would be a good step to where we should be going for all new babies.”

“The cost of the change was the only objection National raised against Sue Moroney’s bill. The amended bill will cost significantly less, and therefore National should vote for it to proceed.”

ENDS

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