The lack of proper maternity time away has long been cited as a barrier to women entering politics.
County and city councillors could have access to paid maternity leave for the first time from early next year.
Cabinet approved a scheme this morning which will entitle councillors to co-opt a substitute for the duration of their leave.
The lack of proper maternity time away has long been cited as a barrier to women entering politics.
Junior Minister and Longford-Westmeath Fine Gael TD, Peter Burke explains how the new scheme will work:
READ MORE: Plans To Introduce Maternity Leave For Councillors Welcomed In The Midlands
Mixed Fortunes For Midlands Towns In Latest Litter Rankings
Midlands Carers In Focus As National Carers Week Gets Underway
Gardaí Investigating Alleged Shots Fired In Laois
Westmeath Retail Worker Sentenced To Eight Months For Violent Assault
Two Midlands Lotto Players Win Big In Saturday Night Draw
Man Hospitalised After Serious Laois Assault
Gardaí Investigating Arson Attack on Westmeath Sports Centre
Public Meeting Set To Take Place On Proposed Westmeath Climate Centre
Offaly Teacher Who Faked Two Pregnancies Avoids Further Jail Time
HSE Seeks Retention Permission For Coffee Dock At Laois Hospital
Offaly Pupils Become Local Stars After Publishing Bestselling Book
Katie Taylor To Fight At Croke Park In September
Offaly Gardaí Renew Appeal For Witnesses To Firearm Incident
Cruinniú Na nÓg Returns With Workshops And Events Across Region
Ukrainian President Seeking Face-To-Face Talks With Vladimir Putin
Ireland’s Oldest Person Dies Aged 109
Midlands Hospice Long Overdue - Hospice Fundraising Committee
Westmeath Town Set For First Official Pride Parade This Weekend
Westmeath Business Wins €15k Award For Supporting Irish Business
€1bn Data Centre And Energy Campus Approved For Westmeath