Here the dad gets 10 weeks that are his alone, I get 9 weeks that are mine. I have to take 3 of the weeks before due-date, just to take things calm before giving birth. The other 6 weeks are for after birth.

Then you can choose, either you get 100% of your pay, and get 8 months to stay home with the baby, or you can choose 80% of your pay, and stay home 10 months with the baby. Most people choose 100% of the wages, cause you can't afford less pay. These months can be divided between mother and father as we see fit our selves. Last time I was home 6 months, the rest the dad got. This time he has told me that he wants more time with the baby. I can't say no, that would just be selfish, besides, I know my self, by that time, I am most likely ready for work anyway. Hopefully the baby are eating more than just breast-milk by then.

And no, the workplace don't pay for this, the government does. I will get my wages from them during the leave, the only thing the workplaces are suffering from this are the loss of a employed for a few months.

Yes, you are totally getting ripped off, these are fantastic months to be home with the child!!