Blog Layout

MP welcomes Parental Bereavement provisions

Carla Lockhart MP • February 14, 2022

Local Member of Parliament Carla Lockhart has said the legal provision for leave and pay for bereaved parents passed by the Northern Ireland Assembly is long overdue, adding that the inclusion of loss by stillbirth or miscarriage is a positive step in recognising the pain felt at such a loss.

Carla Lockhart said:


“The loss of a child is a trauma that no family should face, but sadly many in our community do face such tragedy.


Until now there has been no statutory requirement upon employers to offer leave or pay to those who have faced this terrible situation. Many employers have done the right thing is such circumstances, but others have not. 


Now, thanks to new legislation, there is a legal requirement to provide two weeks leave following the death of a child aged 18 or under. This will also include those who lose a child through still-birth or miscarriage, which is a very welcome recognition of the tragedy of loss in these circumstances.


I want to pay tribute to my colleague Diane Dodds MLA, who initially brought this legislation forward when Minister of the Economy, and to Gordon Lyons MLA for guiding this Bill into law. 


This will be a great comfort to many families who unfortunately will face this hugely challenging time in their lives. It is the right and compassionate thing to do and is very welcome indeed.”

Share

By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has said the closure of Santander’s Portadown branch on 30 June 2025 is yet another blow to high street banking, leaving many customers, especially older people, businesses, and those without digital banking access-without vital services. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has consistently challenged Labour’s decision last year to strip pensioners not in receipt of pension credit of the vital Winter Fuel Payment branding it as “nothing short of disgraceful”. At a time when the cost of living continues to rise and energy prices remain high, this callous move left many older people struggling to heat their homes.
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Last week marked National Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Day, a time to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional work of Cancer CNSs across Northern Ireland. These highly skilled professionals play a crucial role in supporting cancer patients and their families, providing expert care, guidance, and reassurance at every stage of the journey. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Northern Ireland Volleyball following their resounding success in retaining the St Patrick’s Challenge Trophy on 15 March. The annual fixture, which sees Northern Ireland take on the Republic of Ireland, saw Northern Ireland’s four national teams secure a 3-1 victory over their counterparts in an exciting day of top-class sport. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the fantastic community spirit on display at a series of events in Portadown to mark St Patrick’s Day.
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the announcement by Education Minister Paul Givan MLA that the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) will be extended into the 2025/26 financial year, with a 10% increase in the subsidy payment cap from 1st April. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Carla Lockhart MP has praised the Lurgan and Brownlow Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) for securing £7,500 in funding to improve accessibility at their premises. The grant, provided by the Veterans’ Foundation, has enabled the installation of a new stairlift, ensuring better access for veterans and members of the local community.
By Carla Lockhart MP March 19, 2025
Carla Lockhart MP has welcomed a new initiative from Macmillan Cancer Support aimed at improving access to public toilets for people living with cancer. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 18, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has challenged the government on its deeply concerning proposals for changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit, warning that the reforms could disproportionately harm those in genuine need. 
By Carla Lockhart MP March 17, 2025
Reports that lab-grown meat will be available for human consumption in the UK within two years has attracted backlash from farmers and consumers. 
More Posts
Share by: