In Canada we have up to 60% paid leave for 1 year. The Government pays out of the same fund as unemployment benefits. The mom has 12 weeks of maternity leave and the rest is parenting leave and either mom or dad can take that so long as the weeks add up to a total of 1 year. It is wonderful. Giving kids and families time to bond and a good start I am sure it saves money in the long run.

Although I don't qualify this time as I haven't worked since #2 was born.