Jersey mums to get mandatory maternity leave by October

The new law would introduce a mandatory two weeks paid leave for new mothers

Jersey could have its first law for maternity leave by October.

The law would introduce a mandatory two weeks paid leave for new mothers, and optional unpaid leave for both parents.

Jersey's Social Security Minister, Deputy Ian Gorst, said the legislation was overdue.

"We look at the employment protection that we have got in place in Jersey and when you look at maternity leave it is a glaring omission and this puts that right," he said.

Ray Shead, from the Jersey Chamber of Commerce, said: "I think most businesses will support it as it will bring Jersey into the 21st Century."