Call for extension for paid maternity leave (The Tribune)

Jan. 25, 2023 – The Tribune

Equality Bahamas founder, Alicia Wallace featured in The Tribune on January 25, 2023.

From The Tribune:

Ms Wallace believes an increase in paid maternity leave is critical and beneficial for the mother, baby and the entire family as childcare is inaccessible for many.

“The 12 weeks immediately postpartum are known as the fourth trimester as they can be incredibly challenging as mothers recover, while adjusting to the schedule dictated by their newborn baby,” said the Equality Bahamas director.

Call for extension for paid maternity leave (The Tribune)

“Sleep deprivation is, of course common, but there are many other issues that are not generally discussed publicly, from pelvic floor issues to postpartum depression. Paid maternity leave is essential for the health and wellbeing of mothers and children. The increase in maternity leave is critical for mothers themselves, but we can certainly see the benefits for babies and entire families as childcare is inaccessible for many,” she added.

The local activist criticised both the government and employers for failing to adjust the laws and policies of the country to reflect the socio-economic reality of society and developments of the world.

She said: “The prioritisation of businesses and their interests, which are generally limited to profit, over people is leading to tragedy after tragedy.

“The government needs to increase its budget for social assistance and businesses need to value their employees at least to the extent that they expect employees to contribute to their bottom line, and that means investing in their health and wellbeing.”