Fathers must have a Public Services Card before availing of two weeks of paternity leave, the Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar has confirmed.

Mr Varadkar launched a publicity campaign announcing prospective parents will be able to claim the leave and €230 weekly benefit from September 1st.

The Minister said fathers can take the two weeks’ leave within the first 26 weeks of a child’s life or following the adoption of a child.

Four weeks’ notice

Four weeks’ notice must be given to the employer before taking the leave and claimants must have a Public Services Card before applying.

Mr Varadkar said registration for the card was necessary for control of distribution, and he called on people to register for the card as soon as possible.

The €230-a-week benefit will cost €5 million this year and €20 million in a full year.

It will be available to couples adopting and to same-sex couples also.

The introduction of paternity benefit was agreed by former tánaiste and minister for social protection Joan Burton in last year's Budget.

Legislation for its enforcement passed through the House in July.