Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 October 2020
466. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration the number of dedicated spaces for breastfeeding and expressing breast milk in workplaces assigned to his Department in percentage and absolute terms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31747/20]
View answerAs set out in Circular 31/06 - Implementation of the Regulations of the Maternity Protection (Amendment) Act 2004), breastfeeding mothers are entitled to paid breaks from work (one hour per day), or reduced daily working time (one hour per day) to facilitate breastfeeding or lactation (At present, breastfeeding or lactation breaks may continue until the child is two years of age).
My Department fully supports staff members to avail of breastfeeding breaks or a reduction of hours as appropriate to their circumstance and in this regard provides appropriate facilities for same.
There is a designated room that can be used for breastfeeding or expressing milk in the workplace on Floor 1 in Miesian Plaza.
Detailed documentation on breastfeeding and lactation breaks in the Civil Service is provided by the National Shared Services Office (NSSO) under Circular 31/2006.
