French officials hope people will be able to manage the demands of work and family life in an effective manner. Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin announces the new plan will award $916 a month to parents who take one year's unpaid leave from work after the birth of a third child.
The plan will be effective beginning July 2006. De Villepin says the measure will appeal to "numerous parents" and facilitate a "better reconciliation of professional and family rhythms." He adds, "We must do more to allow French families to have as many children as they want."
France's fertility rate is at an average of 1.9 children per woman. It's the second highest in Europe behind Ireland. However, the rate is still below the 2.07 level required to avoid a population decline.
