Melbos right they can't do the "terminating" thing they have to give you official maternity leave (if you ahve been there the right time frame) and in turn this forces them to provide you with the same or similar position on your return. I do believe they have the right to not allow you to tag on annual leave to maternity leave if they want (haven't heard of too many that do this but some do) - under govt legislation - but if he signs off on the annual leave then you should have been paid for the public holidays as I see it.