Consultation Meetings Regarding NPICU Support Leave Continue

Following last September’s national conference that initiated discussions on the introduction of NPICU Support Leave, technical deliberations have now progressed through a dedicated meeting with medical professionals, during which several clinical considerations related to the proposed leave were examined.

Andy Ellul, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, in opening the technical meeting, expressed his gratitude to MP Romilda Zarb, who initially brought this issue to light.

He noted that the topic emerged from the wider consultation process on Miscarriage Leave, a process that highlighted several additional relevant and important issues affecting parents.

Dr. Ellul explained that Miscarriage Leave is now in its final stages and is expected to come into effect on 1 January of next year.

With this measure nearing implementation, the government is continuing its work on additional support mechanisms, most notably, leave for parents whose newborns require intensive care following birth.

He emphasised that this development, together with the extension of Maternity and Paternity Leave, the strengthening of Parental Leave, and ongoing discussions on remote working, forms part of a broader strategy to support Maltese and Gozitan families.

These measures, he said, help ensure a healthier work–life balance for parents navigating difficult and sensitive situations.

During the technical meeting, Dr. Rita Pace Parascandalo delivered a presentation on the scientific study she has been tasked to lead.

This study will explore how NPICU Support Leave could benefit not only parents financially but also their infants from a physical and developmental perspective.

Dr. Pace Parascandalo noted that research already shows that infants in intensive care recover more quickly when parents can spend more time with them.

The ongoing study will therefore examine the wider implications of allowing parents dedicated leave during this critical period.

This session forms part of a broader series of technical meetings through which medical professionals, academics, and parents who have personally experienced having a child in the NPICU will share their insights.

The goal is to identify the best possible model for how this new form of leave should be structured and implemented.

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