The PA Collective Agreement Parental Leave: What You Need to Know
If you are a member of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), you may be entitled to parental leave benefits under the PA collective agreement. The agreement covers federal government employees and provides a range of benefits, including leave for new parents.
The PA collective agreement allows for up to 37 weeks of parental leave for eligible employees. You do not need to take all of the leave at once, as the agreement allows for it to be taken in separate periods. You can take up to 35 weeks consecutively, or you can choose to take a portion of the leave in shorter periods.
To qualify for the leave, you must have been employed by the federal government for at least six months and have completed at least 600 hours of work. You must also have provided your employer with written notice of your intention to take parental leave.
During the leave, you will be entitled to receive up to 93% of your salary through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. You may also qualify for supplemental benefits from your employer, depending on the terms of your collective agreement.
It’s important to note that parental leave under the PA collective agreement is separate from maternity leave. Maternity leave is available to birth mothers and is covered under the Employment Insurance Act. Maternity leave can be taken for up to 15 weeks.
In addition to parental leave, the PA collective agreement also provides for other types of leave, including sick leave, bereavement leave, and family caregiver leave. These benefits are designed to support employees who need time off from work to care for themselves or family members.
To access parental leave benefits under the PA collective agreement, you should contact your human resources department or union representative. They can provide you with information on the application process and any additional requirements you may need to meet.
In conclusion, if you are a federal government employee and a member of PSAC, you may be eligible for parental leave under the PA collective agreement. Be sure to review the terms of the agreement and speak with your employer about your eligibility and how to apply. Taking advantage of these benefits can help you balance your work and family responsibilities during this important time in your life.