A Maltese delegation led by Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul went to Dublin, Ireland, on a consultation visit aimed at exploring ways in which Malta can further strengthen the balance between work and private life, a statement said.
During the two-day visit, Ellul held several meetings in which best practices in a number of areas were discussed, particularly remote working and the right to disconnect, the statement said.
A key aspect of the visit was the exchange of information between the two countries, with the Maltese delegation sharing Malta’s experience regarding the introduction of miscarriage leave.
The Irish government is currently exploring how such a leave could be implemented, the statement said.
Malta’s model was recognised by Irish authorities during meetings with the Irish Ministry for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, as well as with Irish MP Emer Currie, who met with Ellul during the visit.
Ellul said that the information was requested by the Irish government because Malta’s model is considered unique worldwide.
In the context of the Work-Life Balance Reform discussion launched last week, the Irish government, one of the few countries that has introduced such practices, is sharing its best practices on remote working and the right to disconnect with the Maltese government, the statement said.
Ellul also said that within seven days of the launch of the Work-Life Balance Reform discussion, more than 450 submissions had already been received through the dedicated online portal from individuals interested in contributing to the drafting of the document, which will later be subject to public consultation.
During the visit, Ellul also held a bilateral meeting with Irish Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary, with discussions focusing on various areas of cooperation between the two countries.
Minister Calleary thanked Malta for sharing information regarding the miscarriage leave, adding that it is important for Malta and Ireland to continue working together to strengthen relations between the two countries.