Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Decisions on access of partners at maternity hospitals are made, implemented and reviewed at hospital level. The decisions are informed by national guidance with due regard to local circumstances, including infrastructure, local rates of community infection and infection rates among members of staff. The HSE has advised that staff are endeavouring to maximise the attendance of partners within maternity services while ensuring they are in compliance with the HSE's clinical guidelines. It should be emphasised the latest guidelines highlight the importance of taking a person-centred approach to recognising situations in which the presence of a nominated support person is required.

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