The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has enhanced its paid parental leave polices for mothers, fathers and those who become parents through adoption or surrogacy.
The organisation has extended paid maternity leave by three weeks, offering female employees up to 16 weeks of fully paid leave. Paid paternity leave has increased by seven weeks, enabling new fathers to take up to eight weeks. Parents through adoption and surrogacy are also entitled to take up to eight weeks of paid leave; previously there was no policy in place for these employees.
Garry Sinclair, chief executive officer at BTC, said: “This is a huge differentiator for us. We recognise the benefits of parental leave and we believe that this bold step will allow our people to have more time to build stronger connections with their newborns. This policy is quite progressive and aligns more closely with our philosophy and culture.
“BTC remains one of the best places to work in the Bahamas. These positive changes are indicative of our dedication to the wellbeing of our people. We want our parents to feel supported both economically and emotionally.”
The policy, which is applicable for BTC staff working across the Liberty Latin America market, became effective on 1 June 2019.
The enhanced parental leave policies also provide leave on a continuous basis, to support parents as they prepare to return to work.
Kerry Scott, chief people officer, Liberty Latin America at BTC, added: “Evolving our parental leave policy, quite simply, is the right thing to do. We recognise that diversity drives success and family dynamics and structure have changed.
“Our new policy demonstrates our commitment to a culture of diversity and inclusion and one that puts our people at the heart of our success.”