481. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health the measures she and her Department have taken to advocate at an EU level for flexibility in the regulation of breastfeeding and the use and sale of baby formula, which can impact vulnerable families that cannot otherwise safely breastfeed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33530/26]

The protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding is a public health priority in Ireland and is strongly supported by my Department. At the same time, it is recognised that some families cannot breastfeed and must be able to access infant formula that is safe, appropriately regulated and clearly labelled.

Regulation of infant formula and foods for specific groups is largely harmonised at EU level to safeguard infant health and to ensure consistency across the Single Market. Ireland has consistently supported this framework, which is underpinned by scientific advice and aligned with relevant World Health Organization and Codex standards.

At EU level, Ireland engages actively through Council Working Groups and other EU fora on matters relating to food law, including the regulation of infant formula. In these discussions, my Department works closely with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland to ensure that Ireland’s positions are evidence-based and proportionate. Ireland has supported approaches which protect breastfeeding while also ensuring that families who rely on infant formula are not disadvantaged and that regulatory requirements are clear, practical and risk-based.

Ireland also supports ongoing reviews at EU level of the regulatory framework for foods for specific groups, including delegated and implementing acts where appropriate, to ensure that measures remain fit for purpose, informed by scientific developments and responsive to consumer needs, including those of vulnerable families.

Nationally, my Department continues to promote breastfeeding through a range of policy measures and supports, while ensuring that accurate, independent information on the safe preparation and use of infant formula is available to families who require it. This balanced approach reflects our commitment both to public health protection and to supporting parents in making safe and informed feeding choices.

I will continue to ensure that Ireland engages constructively at EU level to support proportionate and protective regulation in this area, informed by public health evidence and the practical realities faced by families.