3568. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the assessment, that has been undertaken by her Department or the HSE regarding the nutritional adequacy, composition and safety of milk produced through induced lactation in persons who have not undergone pregnancy; whether any safeguarding guidance, protocols or risk assessments exist for healthcare professionals supporting induced lactation where infants are involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61773/26]

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.

The Department has not undertaken any assessment, regarding the nutritional adequacy, composition and safety of milk produced through induced lactation in persons who have not undergone pregnancy.

I have referred your queries also to the HSE who will respond in due course regarding whether any assessment has been undertaken regarding the nutritional adequacy, composition and safety of milk produced through induced lactation in persons who have not undergone pregnancy and if safeguarding guidance, protocols or risk assessments exist for healthcare professionals supporting induced lactation where infants are involved.

I trust this reply is of assistance.