A proposal by parliamentarian Tamara Leonard (see Wednesday paper) to increase the maternity leave for expecting mothers and give fathers of new-born babies two weeks off too is probably well-intended, although the upcoming early elections also might have something to do with it. The measure would add six weeks to the 12 pregnant women now get.
It may sound sympathetic also considering the prevailing thought that men should play a bigger role in raising their children from small, but one is left to wonder about the possible consequences. With St. Maarten’s tourism economy in shambles following the catastrophic passage of Hurricane Irma, such a step under the current dire circumstances seems rather questionable to say the least.
The resulting extra burden on businesses struggling to survive as it is can easily prove counterproductive in terms of additional loss of income and jobs. For many companies already faced with extreme difficulties to make ends meet it could simply be asking too much.
What’s more, no consultations to speak of were reportedly held with local unions and employer organisations before submitting the draft amendment, which is always advisable when it regards worker issues. Several collective labour agreements (CLAs) even include provisions in this area that go further than what the existing relevant legislation states.
Perhaps if the UP fraction member had stuck to the 14 weeks for females stipulated by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and left out males for now her idea would be a bit more feasible. The way things stand this is just not the best moment for it.
Timing is everything, they say.
