Written answers

Wednesday, 11 May 2022

Photo of Louise O'ReillyLouise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein)
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244. To ask the Minister for Health if a breastfeeding position paper has been developed by the Obesity Policy Implementation Oversight Group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23538/22]

Photo of Frank FeighanFrank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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The Department is fully committed to promoting and supporting breastfeeding. Healthy Ireland and Sláintecare have made a significant investment towards implementing the National Breastfeeding Action Plan. We all know how important it is that our children get the best possible start in life and this is something all Government partners have prioritised in the Programme for Government.

The HSE have developed the Breastfeeding in Ireland Action Plan - a five-year strategic action plan, which has been extended until the end of 2022. This Action Plan recognises that breastfeeding provides a significant protective factor against obesity in children. This protective role of breastfeeding extends beyond childhood and is important in the prevention of chronic diseases in adulthood including diabetes.

Lactation Consultants are needed to promote and support breastfeeding and the requirement for these is identified in the National Breastfeeding Action Plan. Last year the Department committed recurring funding of €1.58 million to fund an additional 24 Lactation Consultants needed across hospital and community settings to ensure timely skilled assistance for mothers who wish to breastfeed. These posts will also support enhanced training, skills and knowledge to front-line staff.

Photo of Louise O'ReillyLouise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein)
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245. To ask the Minister for Health if discussions to expand the membership of the Obesity Policy Implementation Oversight Group to include service user and patient representation have ever been advanced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23539/22]

Photo of Frank FeighanFrank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Discussions were held in 2021 relating to expansion of the membership of the Obesity Policy Implementation Oversight Group (OPIOG) to include service user and/or patient representation. These proposals have not been further progressed but will be considered at future meetings of the OPIOG.

The Department has engaged with service users in relation to specific issues, and this will continue irrespective of the composition of the OPIOG.

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