Framework agreement on parental leave concluded by UNICE, CEEP and the ETUC

In adopting the report by Mrs Anne-Karin GLASE (PPE, D), the European Parliament affirmed that it supported the agreement between the social partners on parental leave and regarded it as a fundamental breakthrough in equal opportunities policy and a first step in the introduction of new flexible ways of organizing work which satisfy the needs of workers and take account of the requirements of employers. The report notes, however, that certain relevant issues are not adequately covered by the agreement signed by the social partners. Consequently, it calls for: - guaranteed sufficient financial support during parental leave; - extension of rights enjoyed at work to the period in which parental leave is taken; - development of plans to promote the replacement of workers on leave; - the right to social security benefits during parental leave. Parliament takes the view that these issues must be regulated by legislation. Finally, the EP considers it an urgent matter for equality of opportunity that a directive on childcare facilities and the proposal on the reversal of the burden of proof be adopted, to enable a better balance to be created between working life and family life. �