Extended maternity, paternity leave to be granted to judges

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has made the decision to offer extended maternity and paternity leaves to judges.

During March last year, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced six months paid maternity leave for female civil servants during a ceremony held to mark International Women's Day.

JSC on Sunday revealed that the commission has agreed to amend the Judges Act to state that all judges will be granted six months paid maternity leave and one month paid paternity leave.

The decision will be informed to the Attorney General and the Parliament, said JSC.

Women previously got three months paid leave upon the birth of a child. Fathers were only entitled to three days of leave. The new policy adopted by the government is being embraced by several public and private companies.