Written answers

Tuesday, 30 June 2020

Department of Health

Midwifery Services

Photo of Jennifer WhitmoreJennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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549. To ask the Minister for Health the status of the Cavan-Monaghan unit; if no downgrading of the unit will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13557/20]

Photo of Stephen DonnellyStephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Firstly, I would like to be clear that, as evidenced in the Programme for Government, this Government is fully committed to the implementation of the National Maternity Strategy.  

The Strategy outlines  a new model of care for maternity services with three care pathways - Supported, Assisted and Specialised - ensuring that women receive the right care, from the right professional, at the right time in the right place.  In line with that model of care, pregnant women deemed to be at normal risk will be offered, and encouraged to avail of, care in the Supported Care pathway.  Key to realising this goal is the development and expansion of community midwifery services, as recommended in the Strategy.  In that context, any cessation or diminution of midwifery led services is not in line with the recommendations of the Strategy.

My Department has requested, and is awaiting, a full report from the National Women & Infants Health Programme regarding the MLU in Cavan.  The Programme has advised that a review is underway within the RCSI Hospital Group, led by the Group Clinical Director for Maternity Services in conjunction with the Directors of Midwifery from Our Lady of Lourdes, Drogheda and the Rotunda Hospitals.  My Department has sought assurances that any proposals, emanating from the RCSI review, will serve to ensure the future of the MLU in Cavan and that it will operate in line with the National Maternity Strategy.

Once the full report has been received, my Department will work with the National Women & Infants Health Programme to ensure that any additional supports which are required to secure the future of community midwifery services in Cavan, will be put in place.  This will ensure that the choice of the Supported Care pathway remains available to women attending Cavan General Hospital for maternity services.

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