Dáil to be made ‘breastfeeding-friendly’ under new policy

"The reasons behind a reluctance to breastfeed in our society are rooted in cultural choices across generations."

The Dáil is to make moves to become a more 'breastfeeding-friendly' workplace. The Oireachtas is to develop a policy to allow staff members to breastfeed inside the Dáil and the Seanad, reports the Irish Times. The issue was raised at a Dáil committee on procedures last week by TD for Kildare North Catherine Murphy. Deputy Murphy, who is also deputy leader of the Green Party, appealed for support for her proposal from her fellow representatives.

"Given the restrictions on non-members entering the Seanad or the Dáil, I believe that the Oireachtas should have a policy in place to assure any woman TD or Senator that she can breastfeed in the chamber," she wrote in a letter.

"The reasons behind a reluctance to breastfeed in our society are rooted in cultural choices across generations."

An Oireachtas spokesperson told the Irish Independent recently that breastfeeding is not banned in the chambers. "We have no policy on breastfeeding in the chambers as it has never arisen as an issue, but as it stands, only elected members and officials are allowed in the chamber." Speaking at the meeting of procedures committee, Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl said he would be open to creating a specific room in the chambers for breastfeeding if necessary.