Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
1298. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Health his views on recent legislation passed in Westminster to create an optional bereavement certificate for pregnancy loss before 24 weeks' gestation; and his plans to introduce a similar initiative here. [11946/24]
View answerI thank the Deputy for her question, and would like to acknowledge the devastating impact that pregnancy loss at any stage can have on families.
I note the recent legislation passed in Westminster to create an optional bereavement certificate for families, and will follow progress on this matter.
In our own jurisdiction, the Civil Registration (Electronic Registration) Bill will drive forward a number of important reforms to the Civil Registration System. Through this legislation, there are proposals to expand access to the stillbirth register, and expand eligibility to those who request a stillbirth certificate.
There has also been significant work undertaken by this Government to improve supports for families experiencing pregnancy loss. Since the commencement of the National Maternity Strategy, specialist bereavement teams have been established in all 19 maternity services, each with a Clinical Midwife Specialist in Bereavements. In line with the National Standards for Bereavement Care Following Pregnancy Loss and Perinatal Death, this ensures that families who have experienced bereavement receive compassionate care in an appropriate setting. My Department has been assured that all maternity services are continuing to implement these Standards, and this is closely monitored by the Bereavement Standards Implementation Advisory Group.
