A Liberal government will adapt to the changing way we work by giving Canadians more choice in parental benefits and flexible work arrangements, announced Liberal Party Leader Justin Trudeau on Wednesday.

“Today, families juggle more constraints on their time than ever before – from work to commuting to raising kids to providing care for a sick relative – yet government has failed to adapt to this modern reality,” said Trudeau. “That is why a Liberal government, in addition to cutting taxes for the middle class and creating a larger Canada Child Benefit, will give Canadians the flexibility to schedule their time in a way that works best for their families.”

A Liberal government will lead by example and amend the Canada Labour Code to provide every federally regulated worker with the legal right to request – without fear of reprisal – more flexible working conditions, including flexible start and finish times, and the ability to work from home. In addition, we will introduce two new options to parental benefits under Employment Insurance:

* An option that allows parents to receive their benefits in smaller blocks of time over a period of up to 18 months. For example, a single mother could receive benefits for six months, return to work for six months while a relative provides child care, then go back on parental leave and receive benefits for another six months; and

* An option of taking a longer leave – up to 18 months when combined with maternity benefits – at a lower benefit level. This flexibility would also apply for families where two parents split the use of parental benefits.

“As Liberals, we understand that being active and present caregivers for our children is crucial to ensuring their long-term health and success, but we also recognize that most parents need to work,” said Trudeau. “As a father of three young kids, I am proud to be putting forward a plan for real change that will grow our economy while helping families spend more quality time together.”