Margaret Cox (Fianna Fail)

I fully accept the position of Senator White and the other views put forward. I brought my child to Dublin to breastfeed and continued to breastfeed when I was back working in Galway. It is a huge challenge and we need to recognise the efforts of many women to continue breastfeeding for as long as they can. The amendment recognises the change in policy and this is most welcome. While it is not the ideal solution, it makes life easier. It would be lovely if mothers could stay at home with their children and not to have to work, but this is the real world and that is not the case.

Women do not breastfeed for different reasons. Sometimes it does not work out for them, or it is not convenient and so on. It is important to point out that mothers who do not breastfeed are not inferior. It is important to bring balance to the discussion.

I congratulate the Minister of State, Deputy O'Dea, for his bravery in being here. He is doing a difficult job.