Men of Purpose: Enact Paternity Leave Legislation in Trinidad and Tobago
The Issue
Petition Statement:
We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, specifically the Ministry of Labour and the Parliament, to enact comprehensive paternity leave legislation that grants all working fathers a minimum of 30 working days of paid paternity leave to bond with their newborns or adopted children. This policy is essential to promote family well-being and the active involvement of fathers in early childcare.
Why This Matters:
In Trinidad and Tobago, there is currently no legislation governing paternity leave, leaving it to the discretion of individual employers. New mothers are entitled to 14 weeks of paid maternity leave under the Maternity Protection Act, but fathers in the public sector receive as little as four days, and many in the private sector receive none. This disparity undervalues the critical role fathers play in nurturing their children and supporting their partners. Research shows that paternity leave fosters stronger father-child bonds and encourages equitable sharing of childcare responsibilities.
When fathers are involved from the start, they are more likely to remain engaged throughout their child’s life, contributing to healthier families and communities. In contrast, limited or no paternity leave can lead to weaker family connections and perpetuate outdated stereotypes. Jamaica has set a regional precedent by offering 20 working days of paid paternity leave for public sector workers.
Trinidad and Tobago must follow suit to support its families and align with global standards. Rhondall Feeles, president of the Fathers Association of Trinidad and Tobago, has advocated for a minimum of 30 working days of paternity leave, including flexible work-from-home options, to empower men and transform family dynamics.
Our Demands:
1. Legislate Mandatory Paternity Leave: Enact a law guaranteeing all working fathers in Trinidad and Tobago a minimum of 30 working days of paid paternity leave, applicable to both public and private sectors.
2. Fund Through National Insurance: Ensure paternity leave benefits are supported by the National Insurance Board (NIB), similar to maternity benefits, to reduce financial burdens on employers and employees.
3. Raise Awareness and Reduce Stigma: Launch public education campaigns to inform men of their rights and address societal stigmas that discourage fathers from taking leave, such as perceptions of weakness or lack of work commitment.
4. Align with Employment Standards: Incorporate paternity leave into the proposed Employment Standards legislation currently under consultation, ensuring fair and equitable family responsibility leave.
Who We Are:
The "Men of Purpose" campaign represents fathers, families, and advocates across Trinidad and Tobago who believe in the power of involved parenting. We stand for family unity and the right of every father to bond with their child without financial or social penalty. By supporting this petition, you are championing a stronger, more inclusive society.
Call to Action:
Sign this petition to urge the Government of Trinidad and Tobago to prioritize paternity leave legislation. Share it with your community to amplify our call for change. Together, we can ensure that fathers have the time and support to be present for their families, fostering healthier children, stronger partnerships, and a more supportive nation.
Target Decision-Makers:
Minister of Labour - The Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago - The National Insurance Board of Trinidad and Tobago (NIBTT) Contact Information: Men of Purpose Trinidad and Tobago Email: menofpurpose85@gmail.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16yHrz9WRm/
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The Issue
Petition Statement:
We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, specifically the Ministry of Labour and the Parliament, to enact comprehensive paternity leave legislation that grants all working fathers a minimum of 30 working days of paid paternity leave to bond with their newborns or adopted children. This policy is essential to promote family well-being and the active involvement of fathers in early childcare.
Why This Matters:
In Trinidad and Tobago, there is currently no legislation governing paternity leave, leaving it to the discretion of individual employers. New mothers are entitled to 14 weeks of paid maternity leave under the Maternity Protection Act, but fathers in the public sector receive as little as four days, and many in the private sector receive none. This disparity undervalues the critical role fathers play in nurturing their children and supporting their partners. Research shows that paternity leave fosters stronger father-child bonds and encourages equitable sharing of childcare responsibilities.
When fathers are involved from the start, they are more likely to remain engaged throughout their child’s life, contributing to healthier families and communities. In contrast, limited or no paternity leave can lead to weaker family connections and perpetuate outdated stereotypes. Jamaica has set a regional precedent by offering 20 working days of paid paternity leave for public sector workers.
Trinidad and Tobago must follow suit to support its families and align with global standards. Rhondall Feeles, president of the Fathers Association of Trinidad and Tobago, has advocated for a minimum of 30 working days of paternity leave, including flexible work-from-home options, to empower men and transform family dynamics.
Our Demands:
1. Legislate Mandatory Paternity Leave: Enact a law guaranteeing all working fathers in Trinidad and Tobago a minimum of 30 working days of paid paternity leave, applicable to both public and private sectors.
2. Fund Through National Insurance: Ensure paternity leave benefits are supported by the National Insurance Board (NIB), similar to maternity benefits, to reduce financial burdens on employers and employees.
3. Raise Awareness and Reduce Stigma: Launch public education campaigns to inform men of their rights and address societal stigmas that discourage fathers from taking leave, such as perceptions of weakness or lack of work commitment.
4. Align with Employment Standards: Incorporate paternity leave into the proposed Employment Standards legislation currently under consultation, ensuring fair and equitable family responsibility leave.
Who We Are:
The "Men of Purpose" campaign represents fathers, families, and advocates across Trinidad and Tobago who believe in the power of involved parenting. We stand for family unity and the right of every father to bond with their child without financial or social penalty. By supporting this petition, you are championing a stronger, more inclusive society.
Call to Action:
Sign this petition to urge the Government of Trinidad and Tobago to prioritize paternity leave legislation. Share it with your community to amplify our call for change. Together, we can ensure that fathers have the time and support to be present for their families, fostering healthier children, stronger partnerships, and a more supportive nation.
Target Decision-Makers:
Minister of Labour - The Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago - The National Insurance Board of Trinidad and Tobago (NIBTT) Contact Information: Men of Purpose Trinidad and Tobago Email: menofpurpose85@gmail.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16yHrz9WRm/
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Petition created on 4 July 2025