Romanian Mothers End Protest At Govt HQ

Protesters said they do not agree with the new measure targeting children, considering the child-rearing aid was cut by 15% in mid-2010, following the decision of the Government to implement a harsh austerity plan.

Mothers' association president Ana Mihaita said protesters also reject authorities' decision to cap the child-rearing benefit at 3,400 lei (EUR1=RON4.2998) in 2011. Mihaita said that, starting January 1, 2011, the child-rearing aid cap should be set at RON4,000 per month, as the Government promised in July.

Finance Minister Gheorghe Ialomitianu and Labor Minister Ioan Botis arrived at the Government headquarters during mothers' picket to meet with Prime Minister Emil Boc for new talks on the measures regarding child rearing benefits.

Hundreds of Romanian mothers countrywide protested over the new maternity leave regulations.

Boc announced Monday evening that child-rearing aid will be provided for one year as of 2011, instead of the current two-year period, but in the same amount, a change that will not apply to current beneficiaries.

The value of the aid will therefore remain between RON600 and RON3,400. Future mothers will be allowed to spend a second year on maternity leave, but without payment, and will receive a RON500 bonus if they return to work at any time during the second year. Mothers already on leave will continue to receive the current form of aid, for both years.

People close to the matter said the draft emergency ordinance that regulates maternity leave was put on Wednesday's Government meeting agenda to be debated and approved.

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