Seanad debates
Wednesday, 28 May 2003
Maternity Protection (Amendment) Bill 2003: Second Stage.
Section 8 relates to breastfeeding breaks. While I welcome the recognition of the benefits of breastfeeding and that facilities should be provided for mothers who breastfeed, the legislation falls short in terms of what should be provided. Giving legislative backing to breastfeeding-lactation breaks to mothers in the workplace for four months after giving birth will have little impact. As the Minister of State said, the vast majority of women will still be on maternity leave four months after giving birth. This provision will never come into effect because most parents will take maternity, paternal and unpaid leave.
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