Vatican employees to receive £250 child allowance boost
Employees of the Governatorate of Vatican City State, at the request of Pope Francis I, are to receive an allowance of approximately £250. The only condition is that they must have at least three children. The regular allowance will be provided until the children reach adulthood or complete their studies.
Most of the 4,000 secular individuals employed in the Vatican work in various offices and institutions of the Governatorate of Vatican City State. Among its structures are the Vatican Post Office, Vatican Museums, a pharmacy, and technical services.
Starting from the new year, employees who have at least three children will receive an additional monthly benefit of approximately £250, by decision of Francis. This is entitled to families with children up to 18 years old or those continuing their education and studying up to the age of 24, as explained in a statement issued.
"Personal decisions" of the pope
Additionally, the pope has decided to extend from three to five the number of paid leave days granted to fathers on the occasion of a child's birth. The right to such special leave has also been extended to adoptive fathers and legal guardians.
It was emphasised that these personal decisions of Francis were communicated by him to the President of the Governatorate of Vatican City State, Cardinal Fernando Vergez Alzaga, and Secretary-General Sister Raffaella Petrini. During the audience, it was added in the statement, the pope instructed them to implement these plans immediately.
