Grandmother granted maternity leave
Court recognized woman as legal guardian of child after her daughter died
A grandmother who was given custody of her grandchild after her daughter died in a accident is to be given 16 weeks' maternity leave.
The Zaragoza company that employs 60-year-old Pilar Portero recognized this right after a court of first instance named her the legal guardian of her granddaughter, Lola, following her daughter's death a year ago.
With the leave granted, Portero is now waiting for the National Social Security Institute to process the associated economic benefits.
The Workers' Statute recognizes women's rights to take a break due to giving birth, adopting or fostering, but not the granting of guardianship.
However, legal experts say the situation is comparable to maternity and those recognized as guardians of a minor must have access to the same right to benefits derived from labor law.
