Donegal Women’s Centre Welcomes Cabinet Approval of Paid Leave for Early Pregnancy Loss

Donegal Women’s Centre has warmly welcomed the Cabinet’s approval of new legislation that will provide five days of paid leave for women who experience a miscarriage before 23 weeks of pregnancy.

The proposed Pregnancy Loss Leave Bill marks a significant milestone in recognising the physical and emotional impact of pregnancy loss and ensuring that women are afforded dignity, compassion and practical support during one of the most difficult experiences they may face.

Commenting on the announcement, Mary Herlihy, manager at Donegal Women’s Centre said:

“This is a compassionate and long overdue step that acknowledges the profound impact miscarriage can have on women and their families. For too long, many women have been expected to return to work while coping with physical recovery and emotional grief, often without adequate support or recognition. Introducing paid pregnancy loss leave sends an important message that women’s experiences matter and deserve understanding and respect.”

Every year, thousands of women across Donegal and Ireland experience miscarriage, with many carrying their grief in silence. The introduction of statutory leave will help remove some of the barriers women face in taking the time they need to recover without additional financial pressure.

Thanks to funding from HSE, HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy Programme and Cuan, Donegal Women’s Centre has worked for over 36 years to support women across County Donegal through trauma psychotherapy and counselling services, listening service, sexual health and family planning clinics, education, personal development and wellbeing programmes. The Centre understands that pregnancy loss can affect every aspect of a woman’s life, including her emotional wellbeing, relationships, confidence and ability to participate in work and daily life.

The Centre believes that while this legislation is a welcome and progressive development for women in Donegal, continued investment in accessible psychotherapy and counselling, mental health supports and community based services remains essential to ensure women across the county receive the holistic care they need following pregnancy loss.