Breastfeeding rights for working mothers

NEW breastfeeding rights for mothers in the workplace will make it much easier for them to return to the workforce, campaigners said yesterday.

The guidelines, launched by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU), aim to protect the rights of working mothers by ensuring they are entitled to paid breaks for breastfeeding and adequate facilities.

The new legislation provides workers with the right to a minimum entitlement of one hour’s paid breastfeeding leave a day and to facilities which include a private room, fridge, storage and comfortable chairs.