Sharjah Council Approves New Parental Care Leave Policy

Photo: Sharjah Government Media Bureau

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Deputy Chairman of the Executive Council, led a regular meeting of the council on Tuesday morning at the Ruler’s Office. The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Deputy Chairman of the Executive Council.

During the meeting, the council discussed important topics related to the organization and supervision of government departments and other entities across Sharjah. They also reviewed important plans aimed at improving the quality of services in the emirate.

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New Parental Care Leave Policy Approved

As part of the ongoing efforts of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the Executive Council approved changes to a law concerning human resources in Sharjah. These changes are part of Resolution No. (12) of 2021 and Law No. (6) of 2015.

The new policy allows female employees who give birth to a child with a medical condition or disability that requires constant care to receive fully paid leave after their maternity leave. Here are the main points of the new policy:

1. A medical report from an approved medical body must be submitted.

2. The care leave will last for one year with full pay, starting after the maternity leave ends.

3. The leave can be extended each year for up to three years, but the extension will require approval from the relevant authority and a supporting medical report.

4. If the child's health improves, the authority can end the leave based on medical advice.

5. The employee's performance during the care leave will be assessed according to the existing performance management system.

6. If the leave goes beyond three years, the case will be reviewed by the Higher Committee for Human Resources.

7. The time spent on care leave will count as part of the employee's total service.

Executive Regulations for Military HR Endorsed

The council also approved a resolution regarding the rules for human resources in military bodies in Sharjah. The new rules cover a range of important areas such as job classification, recruitment, salaries, allowances, promotions, and other employment benefits. The regulations also explain how internal transfers, secondments, training, educational leave, performance reviews, job responsibilities, and end-of-service procedures will be handled.

Focus on District Councils and Social Initiatives

The council reviewed a detailed report on the performance of district councils and plans to expand them across Sharjah’s cities. They also discussed various community programs aimed at bringing people together and promoting public cultural awareness. These programs are designed to help strengthen social connections and the role of district councils in building a better community.