The Employment (Amendment) Bill 2025 has passed its final stage in the Legislative Council.
It now paves the way for two new statutory leave entitlements as part of the Island’s wider programme to modernise workplace rights.
The legislation gives the Department for Enterprise the authority to introduce Neonatal Care Leave and a new Carer’s Leave framework.
The Bill will now be submitted to the UK Ministry of Justice for Royal Assent. Subject to approval, the Department intends to bring forward the required Regulations early in the next administration.
New Rights Planned
- Neonatal Care Leave will offer additional parental leave for families whose babies require admission to neonatal intensive care, with the length of leave linked to the duration of medical care.
- Carer’s Leave, developed specifically for the Isle of Man, will create a statutory entitlement for employees who need time away from work to manage caring responsibilities.
Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston MHK said the Bill’s completion represented “an important step” in ensuring employment law keeps pace with the needs of working families and carers.
He said the new powers would support greater flexibility and compassion “at times when individuals and families are under significant pressure”.
He added that the measures complete the Island Plan’s legislative commitments to strengthen employment rights and help maintain the Isle of Man as “an attractive place to live, work and raise a family”.
The Department will shortly begin further consultation with employers, employees and representative groups to shape the detailed framework for both leave entitlements, aiming to ensure the final Regulations are “practical, proportionate and balanced”.
Further information on employment rights are available here.
