Many congratulations to Minister @HMcEntee on the birth of her son

A lovely way to celebrate this historic occasion might be for government, @HSELive & Minister @DonnellyStephen to commit to the Maternity Strategy 2016-2026 & implementation plan. 1/n https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/publications/corporate/national-maternity-strategy-implementation-plan.pdf

Women's health feels de-prioritised in this country (cervical check, symphysiotomy etc.). The health of pregnant & new mothers feels particularly overlooked in the pandemic.
We have some excellent reports, policies & implementation plans written.
Let's see them in action. 2/n

Not that it should be a reason, but prioritising women's health & wellbeing will be an excellent investment for the future considering the vital roles women have played in care (and many other areas) throughout the lockdown. @CovidWomenVoice @NWCI @BainneBeatha @HyperemesisIE 3/n

Some insight into the lack of investment in maternity care & breastfeeding supports here: https://padlet-uploads.storage.googleapis.com/1006332478/6075ea5d64ac52543a31cb44e9b46268/Bainne_Beatha___Stories_of_Breastfeeding_in_Irish_Maternity_Hospitals.pdf @BainneBeatha
(Note: a mother should have full autonomy in choosing how to feed her baby, but breastfeeding has not been a priority & Ireland has lowest rates in EU)

Pregnant women are left with debilitating sickness if they can't afford incredibly expensive medication when they suffer from hyperemesis during pregnancy: @HyperemesisIE 5/n

It's wonderful that there is a Women's Health Taskforce in place now.
Let's give them the power to enact change, funding to ensure any change is sustained & a visible implementation plan with specific timelines to see how they are faring. https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/-womens-health/ #healthofallmná