Leaves and absences for family reasons

The Act respecting labour standards grants workers a certain number of days of leave, paid or unpaid according to the circumstances, for family-related events.

Maternity leave

An employed pregnant woman is entitled to maternity leave with the assurance of returning to her job with no loss of benefits. This unpaid maternity leave is taken over several consecutive weeks. Ask your employer or union about the conditions for obtaining it. The Commission des normes du travail du Québec (labour standards board) can inform you about the minimum conditions, determined by law, concerning the right to maternity leave. Under certain conditions, you may be entitled to maternity benefits or allowances during this period. Contact a local employment centre (CLE) or a Human Resources and Skills Development Canada centre for more information.

Parental leave

An employed person is also entitled to leave for the birth of a child, the adoption of a child or to fulfill obligations related to a minor child’s education, health or care. An unpaid leave for a maximum of 52 consecutive weeks may also be granted to the parents of a newborn or to a person who adopts a minor child.

Absences for family reasons

The law also entitles employees to days off in order to attend their own or a family member’s marriage, when a family member dies, or when their presence is required by a family member because of an accident or serious illness. To find out what kind of paid or unpaid leave you could be entitled to, contact the Commission des normes du travail du Québec or your union.

	USEFUL INFORMATION
	If you are pregnant and your job or your workplace endangers your health or that of your unborn child, you can ask your employer for a transfer or take a precautionary pregnancy leave. Find out more from the Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CSST - occupational health and safety board). If you are pregnant, your Local community services centre (CLSC) can provide you with a great deal of support throughout your pregnancy and after you give birth (medical help, nursing care, prenatal classes). Its staff is also available to advise you on family planning at any time.

Useful links

• Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CSST)
• Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux
• Québec Parental Insurance Plan