Maternity partner accompaniment
Deputy Griffin sought consistent nationwide rules so partners can accompany women throughout scans and pregnancy. The Taoiseach said he had spoken to the HSE and Minister, believed national compliance was the aim, and would follow up on the reported inconsistencies.
I ask the Taoiseach again about the situation facing people journeying through maternity. For many, attending scans at 12 weeks and 20 weeks can be a difficult time if there is not good news. Nobody should do it alone. There seem to be inconsistencies still, despite the commitments made on allowing partners to accompany pregnant women throughout the maternity journey. Will the Taoiseach redouble his efforts to ensure there is total consistency throughout the country for every woman and her partner as they journey through pregnancy?
Comment on this
I appreciate the question, which is in good faith and on a very serious issue. I have spoken to the CEO of the HSE and the Minister, who have assured me that consistency will be applied. This issue was raised last week and the week before in the House. I think the Deputy raised it last week. We were told that the vast majority had complied with the new clinical guidance nationally. I am surprised there are inconsistencies and I will follow through on that.