Support for law that would give women leave for heavy periods

LEGISLATION that would give women time off work if they’re having a heavy period has been backed by female politicians.

Laws of this type are currently being considered in Spain, and Sinn Féin’s enterprise spokeswoman, Louise O’Reilly, said that Ireland should ‘definitely look at’ doing something similar.

She added: ‘I think what they’ve done in Spain is very positive.’ Ms O’Reilly said introducing such a measure could improve workers’ productivity. ‘It can be a bit more difficult to be in work some days than others, and I think we need to examine those reasons why,’ she said.

She also told The Hard Shoulder on Newstalk: ‘[It should be] part of a suite of measures that recognise that sometimes you can’t be in work. On those days when you can’t be in work – and you need to be at home or you need to be away for a time – it makes the days when you’re in work actually more productive.’

Under a draft bill leaked to Spanish media, those suffering from intense menstrual pain could receive three days of leave a month – which could be increased to five days. If Spain were to introduce the law, it would become the first country in Europe to offer such an entitlement.

Menstrual leave is already offered in a handful of countries including Japan, Taiwan and South Korea.

Fianna Fáil senator Erin McGreehan said the Government should consider introducing work leave for people suffering from chronic pain, including heavy periods. She said chronic pain is a ‘real barrier to people working’.

The Louth senator suffers from endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition that causes severe period cramps and other pain. Speaking to the Irish Daily Mail, Ms McGreehan said a law ‘could be introduced for all sufferers of chronic conditions’.

She added: ‘To recognise chronic pain and illnesses, the likes of MS [multiple sclerosis] or lupus, where people can have flare-ups – a recognition of that would also be important.

‘We need a good consultation on that – from medical practitioners and from people who have these conditions… It’s not just women. Men also suffer from chronic pain and illnesses.’ She said there needs to be better understanding and services for women with gynaecological issues that can cause painful periods.

‘Barrier to people working’