Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021
1047. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the facilities available in his Department to facilitate breastfeeding breaks in accordance with WHO guidelines of two years for women in the workplace and as part of the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9365/21]
View answerThe Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has overall responsibility for the implementation of the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020.
Section 9 of the Maternity Protection (Amendment) Act 2004 has provision for certain women in employment who are breastfeeding to take time off work, or a reduction in working hours for breastfeeding.
The provision applies to all women in employment who have given birth over the previous 26 weeks, who are breastfeeding and who have informed their employer of such.
My Department operates from 71 locations nationwide, including five HQ offices and a wide range of regional locations.
With respect to the provisions above and any potential requirements arising with respect to breastfeeding breaks, the overwhelming majority of staff in my Department have access to facilities which would cater appropriately for such needs.
