Men and women in the State work longer hours than the EU norm, according to a study published yesterday.
Compiled by the Institute of Public Administration, the research examined the implications of long working hours for those trying to balance work with family life.
It warned that long working hours for men can militate against their greater involvement in the sharing of caring and other responsibilities. "Long working hours for women could likewise act as a deterrent to greater labour market involvement of both those currently inside and outside the labour market," it said.
Launching the study, Balancing Work and Family Life, the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern, said parental leave would be reviewed and improved. The Government was determined to create an environment in which parents "can make their own choices". This process had been moved forward by Budget announcements to increase maternity leave and children's allowances, he said.