Child-rearing aid in Romania will be provided for one year as of 2011, down from the present two years, but in the same amount, a change that will not apply to current beneficiaries, Prime Minister Emil Boc announced Monday evening.  The value of the aid will therefore remain between 600 and 3,400 lei (EUR 139 to EUR 790). Future mothers will be allowed to spend a second year on maternity leave, but without payment, and will receive a RON 500 bonus if they return to work at any time during the second year.

Mothers already on leave will continue to receive the current form of aid, for both years.  The Government will implement these changes through an emergency ordinance.

Mediafax