Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 April 2021
233. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans for the inclusion of babies who are stillborn before 24 weeks and or under 500g in weight to be included on the still birth register; her plans for those babies to receive a certificate of life (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18070/21]
View answerThe relevant legislation in this area is the Stillbirths Registration Act 1994 which applies to a child born weighing 500 grammes or more or having a gestational age of 24 weeks or more who shows no sign of life. Such thresholds are a feature of such registrations internationally and are in line with World Health Organisation guidelines in this area.
I understand that these thresholds are currently under review in the Department of Health. Any future proposals for change in this area will be considered in the context of the outcome of that review.
I trust this clarifies the position for you at this time.
