If she was that desperate to take care of the child why not request a pairing from Monday? Why reinforce these negative stereotypes and make it harder for other women? If you're not committed to a senior position, have kids, and don't trust their father to care for them, then don't take the position or leave.
You can't be both primary caregiver of a child/family member and be in a senior position. There is no such thing as having it all.
Slightly off topic post on my part but perhaps the father needed to return to work? I'm not weighing into it as it has been twisted on both sides beyond all recognition of the truth.
As to the poster who said to make polling over 40. I really can't see that as a good thing. I want those under 40, mothers, fathers, and various cultures all represented in parliament. How else do you get decisions that reflect the community. Imagine all being over 50 or 60 years and male. Not only would you have a government more likely to oppose things like gay marriage, but you would have ones that suddenly recognise and prioritise retiree issues over those of the broader community. I want women in parliament who are juggling work and family. (and I would like to see men doing it too). Women are retiring with a fraction of the wealth of men, due to lower pay and caring duties. I don't want extra cash and special treatment for being female. I want equality. And that isn't going to happen if all pollies are older men who have never had involvement in raising their children. .
I think women are underutilised in this country. If you get more able to work and productive then it is a lot more cash for the country. Unfortunately, with childcare, respite care, workplace inflexibility many can only work part time or casual jobs. Never mind that once childcare costs are added up, you can actually be paying money out of your own pocket to work. How is that a good thing? After that, you have school holidays, sick days etc. As a general rule it is the mother who has to take time off. Now think, what happens if they divorce. Generally mum has to juggle kids and work by herself. She has no savings and little ability to work anything above part time.
Do you seriously want a society that actively financially discriminates against women, and puts them into poverty due essentially to their sex?
I would like to see a lot more business owners in parliament though .
(and I think TAs maternity leave is useless btw. It gives cash to the family to have the women stay home, but doesn't address any of the issues as to getting them back to work. Poor financial decision of the government's part)
/rant over