Ireland's health service confirms maternity leave for transgender men

The Health Service Executive (HSE) in Ireland has confirmed that transgender men who are pregnant or give birth are entitled to 26 weeks of paid maternity leave. Under the guidance, eligible employees receive their basic salary and fixed allowances, minus any government maternity benefits. Following the paid period, these individuals may also claim up to 16 weeks of additional unpaid maternity leave.

To qualify for these benefits, employees must hold a gender recognition certificate issued under the Gender Recognition Act 2015. This legislation allows individuals aged 18 and over to change their legal sex via statutory declaration. The entitlement to maternity leave for transgender men was extended under the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023, effective from July 3, 2023.

There is no minimum length of service required to access these entitlements. The HSE guidance also notes that qualifying employees are entitled to breastfeeding breaks upon returning to work.