Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance) | Oireachtas source

I have to step out for much of the discussion because of our Private Members' Bill. I thank all the witnesses for appearing before us today. I do not know a huge amount about this issue but I am obviously learning. It is a fascinating subject. I am not sure if anybody has mentioned a perinatal division in Ireland. Approximately a year ago, I saw a report on perinatal care and mother and baby units in Great Britain on the BBC and was really struck by it. These are specialised units for women suffering from postnatal depression. I looked at the NHS website. According to its research, 20% of all new mothers could experience mental health difficulties prior to birth, giving birth and after giving birth. It was a fascinating report. During the past year, there have been discussions about a mother and baby unit. Obviously, that name has connotations in this country but this is a different type of unit. I think it is going to be on the campus of St. Vincent's Hospital. What are the witnesses' thoughts on perinatal care? This unit would be the first of its kind in Ireland. What outlet do such units give women? When I watched that report, I was shocked. When a woman gives birth, in some circumstances, she can experience terrible depression that can have a significant impact on her and her baby. What are the witnesses' thoughts on a perinatal division in this country and the proposed mother and baby unit on the campus of St. Vincent's Hospital?