Vol. 524 No. 5
339 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will reconvene the National Committee to Promote Breastfeeding to ensure the full implementation of the national breastfeeding policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23236/00]
The strategy being pursued by the health promotion unit of my Department in relation to breastfeeding is in accordance with the recommendations of the national breastfeeding policy. This policy has guided developments and initiatives in relation to the promotion of breastfeeding. While many recommendations have been implemented, it is acknowledged that the incidence of breastfeeding in this country continues to be lower than that of our European counterparts.
However, the health promotion strategy published in July this year calls for a more structured approach to the implementation of the recommendations set out in the national breastfeeding policy. As part of this new strategy, it is proposed to appoint a national breastfeeding co-ordinator who will advise the health promotion unit on the effectiveness of current policy actions in Ireland and on measures required to increase breastfeeding rates. I will consider what new structures may be required in this context, including the reestablishment of a national committee on breastfeeding.
