Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021
435. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the status of the expected timeline for the roll-out of the baby box programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27914/21]
View answerBaby Boxes for newborns are to be piloted under First 5 A Whole-of -Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families 2019-2028. Piloting Baby Boxes is just one initiative which is part of a wide ranging strategy addressing various aspects of the lives of children from birth to age five including supports for parents to balance working and caring, developments in early learning and care and health initiatives.
The gift of the Baby Box is intended as a welcome from the State for a new arrival to a family and an acknowledgement of this very significant moment for parents. The universal distribution of Baby Boxes also reflects an important equality principle that each child is given something of equal value at the start of their life. The concept of Baby Boxes originates in Finland (and has been implemented in a number of other countries) and consists of a package of items to assist with the transition to parenthood. The pilot will undertake research and consultation to determine items for inclusion in the pack and these may include safety items, toys to support early development and books .Key objectives with the Baby Box and linked communications will include support for parent-infant bonding, information on baby development and early learning, advice and support for breastfeeding and promotion of infant health and safety.Owing to Covid-19, work on the pilot project has been postponed. However, a First 5 Project Specialist is being recruited in my Department and will lead on this project. It is hoped to have this person in post in the coming months and commencement of the pilot will follow thereafter.
