Fathers could be in line for two weeks paid paternity leave.

Equality Minister Aodhan O’Riordain last night said he is confident the provision will be included in the Family Leave Bill, which is currently being drafted and expected to be introduced by the end of the year.

Speaking on Prime Time last night, Minister O’Riordain said Ireland is well behind on the issue of paternity leave.

Patricia Callan - director of the Small Firms Association - says all employees are entitled to four weeks holidays, with nine public holidays on top of that.

She says if the two paternity leave weeks are introduced many companies will face difficulties maintaining staffing levels: