Employee Rights During Pregnancy in Ireland: A Complete Guide (2026)
Pregnancy is one of the most strongly protected grounds under Irish employment law. Employers are prohibited from dismissing or penalising an employee because of pregnancy, and employees have a range of statutory rights before, during, and after maternity leave. This guide explains everything a pregnant employee needs to know.
Protection Against Dismissal
Dismissal for any reason connected with pregnancy, maternity, or related matters is automatically unfair under the Maternity Protection Acts 1994 and 2004 — regardless of length of service. There is no 12-month service requirement. This protection applies from day one of employment.
If you are selected for redundancy during pregnancy, you must be offered any suitable alternative vacancy that exists within the organisation.
Health and Safety During Pregnancy
Your employer must carry out a risk assessment for pregnant employees. If a risk is identified and cannot be removed, your employer must: first adjust your working conditions or hours; if that is not possible, move you to alternative work; if neither is possible, you are entitled to health and safety leave (paid for the first 21 days, then social welfare benefit).
Time Off for Antenatal Appointments
You are entitled to paid time off to attend antenatal classes and medical appointments. Partners are entitled to paid time off for the last two antenatal visits before the birth.
Maternity Leave Entitlements
- 26 weeks basic maternity leave
- 16 weeks additional unpaid maternity leave taken immediately after the 26 weeks
- At least 2 weeks must be taken before the expected birth date
- Maternity Benefit (currently €274 per week) payable from the Department of Social Protection during the 26 weeks, subject to PRSI contributions
Right to Return to Work
You have the right to return to the same job on the same conditions after maternity leave. If this is not reasonably practicable, you must be offered suitable alternative work on no less favourable terms. Your employer cannot change your terms and conditions while you are on maternity leave.
Breastfeeding Rights
For 26 weeks after the birth, you are entitled to either a one-hour daily reduction in working hours (without loss of pay) to facilitate breastfeeding, or a suitable place at work to breastfeed. Four weeks notice must be given to your employer.
Think your pregnancy rights have been violated? Book a 30-minute consultation immediately — do not delay. See also our unfair dismissal guide.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
