Japan: minister on parental leave

(ANSA) - TOKYO, JANUARY 15 - Japanese Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who is about to become a father, has decided to take advantage of parental leave, thus trying to give a good example in a country known for the endless working hours and a traditional conception of the family.
38-year-old Shinjiro, son of Junichiro Koizumi - Japanese premier between 2001 and 2006, said he will take two weeks over the three months following the birth of his first child, but will attend parliamentary sessions, trying to better manage his business minister with father's obligations: "I hope my decision will influence the choices of the other employees within the ministry". During the 14-day leave, added Koizumi, he will use video conferencing to attend meetings.