Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

As I have stated several times during Leaders' Questions and questions on promised legislation, the Government tends to follow public health advice because it is a good north star to follow in these times. However, one sometimes wonders what is the rationale for particular decisions. In the instance cited by the Deputy, I tend to agree with him. The restrictions to which he referred are a remarkable imposition on and difficulty for expectant parents. Anyone who has been in that position knows that being present when one's child is born or when a scan comes through for the first time is one of the most important moments in one's life. I believe the restrictions are applied on a case-by-case basis. Different hospitals are applying different rules. My personal view is that it would be far better and more appropriate to allow partners to be present for those particular moments, as much for the resultant health benefits as for anything else.

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