Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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149. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if breastfeeding and lactation breaks or paid reduction in working hours for breastfeeding mothers of 104 weeks will be ensured across the public service. [53759/19]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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As Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, I am responsible for the non-pay terms and conditions for the Civil Service only. Other Ministers have such responsibility for the various sectors of the wider public service.

Paid breastfeeding breaks, until the child is two years old, were introduced in the Civil Service in 2006.

A copy of the relevant Circular can be found at the following link:

I am aware that the Government have approved the drafting of provisions extending the period in which employees would be entitled to breastfeeding breaks or a paid reduction in working hours from 26 to 104 weeks. This legislation is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality. Any requirements in law that change the provisions for breastfeeding breaks will subsequently be implemented in the public service.