New Maternity Rights in Force.
Since December 1999, the regulations governing
maternity leave have changed via the Employment Relations Act (1999). The new
section deals with dismissal or detriment as the result of pregnancy, something
that previously could only be persued with difficulty under Sex Discrimination
Act.
Redundancy on grounds of preganncy is also covered and
is stated as unfair dismissal.
Claims for unfair dismissal are valid for up to 3
months. Length of service is immaterial.
Women whose babies are born after 30th April 2000 will
be eligible for 29 weeks leave after the birth if they have one
year's service at the qualifying date.
The provisions also strengthen the women's right to
choose the return date, rather than the employer having the right to postpone
their return.
We are still waiting these rights in their final form,
so please enquire if necessary. |
