Japan prefecture to grant workers leave to take care of grandkids

SENDAI, Oct 10 (Kyodo) - The prefecture of Miyagi in northeastern Japan plans to grant government workers leave to take care of their grandchildren as part of efforts to help child-rearing parents.

The initiative, expected to start in January, would be the first such undertaking among the 47 prefectures in the country, according to the Miyagi government. It reflects a growing number of families where both parents work and where help from grandparents is needed.

Gov. Yoshihiro Murai told reporters on Oct. 3 that he would take three days off this month to take care of his second grandchild born in September, and mentioned his "deep regret" for not playing an active role in rearing his own children. ...continue reading

Source: ANNnewsCH

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