Ms Angela Dunne:

There are three models. The supported model, the assisted model and the specialised model. Each of those is based on the risk assessment of the woman, whether she is low risk or high risk. The supported model of care is usually provided by midwives who are experts in low risk women. The assisted model is a combination of consultant care and midwifery care. Specialised care is for the very high risk mother.

In respect of the point raised about midwives and the consultants, midwives are required to deliver all three pathways of care. Many midwifes are expert in the supportive model and want to work in that area. However, we also have to provide midwifery care to the assisted and the specialised models. That is the point referred to earlier I think.