State failing parents of seriously ill children, MPs say

MPs and patients’ associations on Tuesday decried the fact that parents with children suffering from serious ailments have largely been left to their own devices, with some even losing their jobs because of long absences to care for their children. Representatives of groups as well as lawmakers demanded that the government step up its game, as state support for these families is nowhere near enough. Extending the duration of parental leave for as long as necessary, increasing allowances, and making advance payments to parents spending time in hospitals abroad with their children, were among the proposals heard. MPs were particularly frustrated, recalling that the discussion in parliament began a year ago, with the situation for parents remaining unchanged since.

Akel MP Marina Nicolaou said they’ve asked for a special paid leave for parents who have to care for their sick children, as well as safeguards so that a parent cannot be sacked while away from work. In addition, the state should recognise as insurable, for pension purposes, the time spent by parents at home or at the hospital. “The state must rise to the occasion,” said Nicolaou. Diko’s Andreas Apostolou described families with children receiving hospital treatment as “the most vulnerable”. In turn, he called on the health ministry to provide in advance the allowance for non-medical expenses – such as for accommodation – incurred by parents while overseas. As it stands, these expenses are reimbursed later, and the reimbursements take time. A health ministry official said they are considering upfront payments covering part of these non-medical expenses. However, he noted, this might result in overpayments. The comment drew an angry reaction from Disy MP Demetris Demetriou, who recalled that benefits…