Seanad debates
Wednesday, 28 May 2003
Maternity Protection (Amendment) Bill 2003: Second Stage.
I refer to the legislative cover for breastfeeding-lactation breaks in European countries. Ireland is also well behind in this regard and the Bill will not improve the position. The breastfeeding rate in Austria is 96.4% and mothers are entitled to one 45 minute break for every four hours worked. In Norway, where 99% of mothers breastfeed, two hour long breaks are provided daily and in Italy, where 85% of mothers breastfeed, two one hour breaks are provided for up to seven months following childbirth. The breastfeeding rate in Spain is 85% and a one hour break is provided for each day or the working day is shortened by 30 minutes up to nine months following childbirth. The legislation does not address the issues faced by mothers.
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