Is maternity leave counted into the recent working experince ?

Hello,

I need help about whether I reach the requirements for recent work experience (24 months / 36 last months) to apply for CEC when my work experience includes maternity leave. My case is a little complicated as you see below:

I worked for my last employer since between March 2006 and May 2008 based on a temparory work permit that was valid till Feb. 2009. After May 2008, I had to stop my work because of my maternity leave (without salary). Till Feb. 2009, my work permit here was expired and I went back my home country.
Now I returned Canada with a Study Permit. So I would like to try to apply for CEC based on my previous work permit. However, I don't know if my maternity leave between May 2008 and Feb. 2009 could be counted into the 2-year full time job. If yes, I will be qualified, otherwise not qualified for the CEC.

Anybody has any suggestions?

Thanks a lot!

Lucyyang