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Ireland's female workforce: under pressure and financially vulnerable

Companies that do not offer a Maternity Benefit may be turning away potential workers, three out of four women say that the lack of Maternity Benefit would influence them not to accept a job position – according to a recent survey conducted by recruitment company principle hr.

Ireland's female workforce feel that taking maternity leave is considered a hindrance by their employers and that they are under excessive pressure when support is needed the most. Maternity benefit contributions from  employers’ in Ireland while not compulsory varies significantly from providing no financial support or flexibility in work conditions to full pay and additional non-monetary support.  

“It was also found that the majority of Irish employers do provide some financial contribution during maternity leave, however it is often like comparing ‘apples and oranges’ when job seekers are looking at them, that is if they are communicating them at all,”  said principle hr Managing Director Audrey Hughes.  “We are encouraging our clients to look closely at what benefits they are offering in comparison to market norms and how it is communicated to ensure that they not only attract the best candidates but help to keep them.”  

“I was surprised by the level of frustration and resentment expressed by some of the survey participants, Hughes said.  For example one female said “most employers begrudge maternity leave, not conducive to having more than one baby.” The findings of the survey and views expressed demonstrate that there is significant pressure on female workers trying to balance career progression with family life.”  

With uncertainties facing both employers and employees in 2008, ensuring stability in the work place is vital.  Employers need to openly communicate what their maternity benefit policy is, not only to attract and maintain their female workforce but to avoid discrepancies, claims or any other ambiguity that exists.   

Other results from the survey: 

• 88% of female employees believe that Maternity Benefit contribution from employers should be compulsory 

• It was found that over 60% of Irish employers provide maternity benefits to their employees on top of the statutory entitlement.  However it should be noted that an additional 19% of participants were unsure. 

• 50% of employers pay employees their full pay entitlement for 26 weeks less the department of social welfare contribution. 19% received nothing from their employers and the balance 31% receive some contribution, however this would be less than their normal pay. 

• 38% do not have any obligation to their employer to return to work regardless of whether they received a contribution or not, again a staggering 50% were unsure. 

• 61% of participants suggested that they would return to work on a full time basis. 33% suggested a part-time basis and 6% opted for job sharing. 

• 77% of Irish woman still feel that taking maternity leave will inevitably affect their chances of career progression over those that do not.