Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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1123. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the facilities available in her Department to facilitate breastfeeding breaks in accordance with WHO guidelines of two years for women in the workplace and as part of the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9378/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Department of Rural and Community Development is committed to promoting and supporting breastfeeding which leads to positive health outcomes for mother and child. The World Health Organisation recommends the continuation of breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond.

In this regard and consistent with Circular 31 of 2006, concerning the Implementation of the Maternity (Amendment) Act, 2004, the Department of Rural and Community Development ensures that employees who are breastfeeding are afforded breastfeeding breaks, or an adjustment in working hours, until the child reaches 2 years of age. This is in accordance with guidance provided by the World Health Organisation.

Congruent with the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020, the Department of Rural and Community Development provides necessary and suitable onsite facilities, affording time and support to our breastfeeding mothers, enabling the continuation of breastfeeding up until the child reaches 2 years of age.