The Malta Chamber of Commerce President said that a consensus has been reached on miscarriage leave, “recognising the difficult times a couple may face during such events” as socially beneficial.

This comes as GO, one of Malta’s largest telecommunications company, introduced miscarriage leave for both partners last week. 

GO introduced its Pregnancy Loss Leave policy in April 2023, offering up to four weeks of fully paid leave to employees physically experiencing miscarriage.

Under the updated policy, any GO employee whose partner suffers a pregnancy loss may now also take up to four weeks of fully paid Pregnancy Loss Leave, mirroring the entitlement already available to carrying partners who are GO employees. 

The announcement comes as the Maltese Government initiates a national consultation on miscarriage leave. 

"Most employers already provide for their employees in cases of health-related issues," the Malta Chamber president said during a technical consultation of the idea of introducing this kind of leave.

"Over the past weeks, the Parliamentary Secretary has consulted with various social partners, including The Malta Chamber, and there is consensus that recognising the difficult times a couple may face during such events is socially beneficial. As has been stated by the Parliamentary Secretary, it is essential that the Government funds the financial cost," he said.

However Mr Spiteri Bailey emphasised a need for a “fair balance” for minimal disruption for both employers and employees.

“Employers face not only financial setbacks but also the need to replace employees who are on sick leave. Therefore, it is necessary to strike a fair balance on the allocated days, ensuring minimal disruption while supporting a quicker recovery. This also helps maintain balance with other types of leave, such as Bereavement Leave.”

The national consultation is on-going.