Nursing-private to public

Hi All
Im a nurse working in the private sector for the last 5 years. I am at the stage in my life where I am planning a family in the next few years and where a job with maternity pay is of prime importance. As that is not an option in my current role I am seriously considering rejoing the public sector for this reason alone. I have a few questions,

1. If working on a temporary contract are you entitled to full maternity benefits and if so after how long.
2. I currently earn 650euro per week, does this reflect a public sector salery? I am 6 years qualified.
3. Am I mad to give up my weekends, Christmas and bank holidays off? My hubby to be is a teacher! Is booking time off a nightmare with so many people looking for prime holiday seasons off?

I know some of these questions are personal but I would appreciate any help at all as they are important to me and my decision!

Thanks a mil

Hi Hugo
I am afraid I cannot answer the first question - however q2 - I am understanding that you dont work nights or week ends, in this case you are probably on basic pay. Depending on your skills and where you work you would probably get more in the public sector.
q3 - it depends - I used to be a nurse and would not swap week ends off for no -one and if you were tight you could do agency, on the flip side if you are planning a family having odd times off can reduce the cost of childcare.
P