Deirdre Clune
Question:452 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to promote, protect and improve the number of breastfeeding mothers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1414/00]
Vol. 513 No. 1
452 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to promote, protect and improve the number of breastfeeding mothers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1414/00]
The promotion of breastfeeding is supported by the health promotion unit of my Department in a number of ways in line with the national breastfeeding policy. In prioritising the recommendations of that policy and how they might be implemented it was recognised that the support of health professionals would be critical. They are the first point of contact for the mother during pregnancy and after childbirth and are ideally placed to ensure that the mother receives information about the benefits of breastfeeding in order that she can make an informed choice. Consequently, the National University of Ireland, Galway, with funding from the health promotion unit of my Department, has produced a training pack for health professionals which includes a breastfeeding video and information booklets. This pack was developed in conjunction with An Bord Altranais and is designed to equip health professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to assist mothers with breastfeeding. This training pack has been widely disseminated.