Written answer
Food Safety
The Department has not issued or endorsed guidance on induced lactation without pregnancy, while prioritising infant welfare and evidence-informed breastfeeding support.
3569. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health whether her Department, the HSE, or any agency under her remit has issued, endorsed or adopted clinical guidance relating to induced lactation in persons who have not undergone pregnancy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61772/26]
Comment on this
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 recognises the importance of ensuring that the welfare, nutritional needs and best interests of infants remain central to all infant-feeding advice and support.
The Department has not issued, endorsed or adopted clinical guidance relating to induced lactation in persons who have not undergone pregnancy.
I have sent your questions to the Health Service Executive, who will respond directly in due course.
The Department remains committed to the development of evidence-informed breastfeeding policy and is currently preparing a new National Breastfeeding Strategy.
I trust this clarifies the Department’s position.