19/08/2026
McReynolds Urges Stronger Paternity Leave And Flexible Working
Peter McReynolds, an Alliance MLA for East Belfast, has organised the Belfast Parent Strike, part of the UK's first Parent Strike, to be held at Belfast City Hall at 12.30pm on Thursday 27 August.
The day of action, coordinated by The Dad Shift and Flex Appeal, will take place in 13 locations across the UK. Campaigners are urging the UK Government to introduce six weeks' paternity leave paid at 90% of salary, and for employers to adopt and advertise flexible working.
Peter McReynolds said: "Since the birth of my son 10 months ago, I have experienced firsthand the challenges of balancing work life with being a new parent. It's important that we, as dads, can be there for our families, to share the load and support our partners.
"I was fortunate I was able to take paternity leave and experience many key milestones alongside my wife in those early weeks, but many fathers don't have the same opportunity.
"That's why I am hosting the Belfast location for the Parent Strike. We need to support families who are working hard to do the best for their kids. Together, we can show the importance of paternity leave and flexible working."
The day of action, coordinated by The Dad Shift and Flex Appeal, will take place in 13 locations across the UK. Campaigners are urging the UK Government to introduce six weeks' paternity leave paid at 90% of salary, and for employers to adopt and advertise flexible working.
"I was fortunate I was able to take paternity leave and experience many key milestones alongside my wife in those early weeks, but many fathers don't have the same opportunity.
"That's why I am hosting the Belfast location for the Parent Strike. We need to support families who are working hard to do the best for their kids. Together, we can show the importance of paternity leave and flexible working."
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