Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Encouraging mothers to breastfeed is a priority for the Department of Health. National health policy, including the Healthy Ireland Framework, the National Maternity Strategy, the Obesity Policy and Action Plan, and the National Cancer Strategy, emphasises the importance of supporting mothers who breastfeed, as well as taking action to increase breastfeeding rates in Ireland.

The HSE Breastfeeding in a Healthy Ireland Action Plan is the framework for progressing supports for breastfeeding in Ireland.

In May 2021, Minister Donnelly announced additional annual funding to the HSE of €1.58 million to fund 24 additional lactation consultants thereby providing support to every maternity unit in the country. I am advised by the HSE that below is the current position in relation to the recruitment of lactation consultants and supports for breastfeeding generally.

As of December 8 2022 the status of dedicated lactation/infant feeding post recruitment is as follows:

1. There are a total of 45.6 WTEs currently in post, comprised of 31.8 in maternity services and 13.8 WTEs in community

2. In maternity services, 9.5 WTEs were allocated from the Ministerial announcement of 24 posts. 8.5 WTEs are currently filled, with 1 WTE appointed and awaiting a start date. Within the 8.5 WTE filled posts, 1.5 WTE posts are appointed in a temporary capacity pending permanent appointments

3. In community services 14.5 WTEs were allocated from the Ministerial announcement of 24 posts. 7 WTES are in post; 3WTE have confirmed start dates for January 2023; 3 WTEs are awaiting start dates and 1.5 WTE remain in recruitment

The HSE is actively engaged in enhancing lactation supports through both these dedicated infant feeding positions and the implementation of training for all practitioners who provide advice and support in infant feeding as part of their wider service roles.