Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 April 2004
45 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Government has managed to increase breastfeeding rates in the past two years; the strategy he has to increase the number of women who breastfeed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10814/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe health promotion unit of my Department published the interim report of the National Committee on Breastfeeding in May 2003. The committee, established in 2002, was charged with reviewing the 1994 national breastfeeding policy and providing recommendations on what further action is required at national, regional and local level to improve and sustain breastfeeding rates. The interim report cites that there are difficulties in accurately identifying the numbers of women who breastfeed, as currently the only national source for this data is the national perinatal reporting system, of which the most recent figures available date from 1999. The committee also identifies the need for accurate reporting of not just initiation rates but also, given the health benefits involved, duration rates. The national performance indicators project team is, at present, working towards the development of a composite set of indicators to capture this data.
The interim report was presented to me in mid-2003 and has paved the way for the development of a strategic action framework for breastfeeding. A wide range of proposals for future actions and initiatives have been put forward by the organisations and individuals who responded to the committee's call for public submissions and these will inform the development of the strategic plan. The goal for this framework is to create a truly supportive breastfeeding culture in Ireland. I do, however, recognise that for this to happen support needs to come from all sectors of Government and all areas of public life. It is envisaged that the framework for action will be completed by late 2004.
