This legislation will classify midwives as a separate and distinct profession also, which I believe is appropriate. The duties carried out by midwives in caring for women before, during and after childbirth require incredible professionalism and skill. We have an excellent service at Letterkenny General Hospital in my constituency in Donegal. I commend nursing staff there on their good work. In the past four years I have had an opportunity to experience the service at first hand as my three children were delivered in the hospital. The service was second to none. I also welcome the fact that the Bill provides for the establishment of a midwives committee to advise the board on all matters relating to midwifery practices.

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