Ireland ' world's lowest breastfeeding rate'

Figures have revealed Ireland has the lowest rate of breastfeeding in the world, Minister for Health Micheál Martin has said today.

Launching Breastfeeding Awareness Week, the Minister Martin said the latest findings can have a significant impact on adults' health.

Babies who are breastfed are less likely to suffer from gastroenteritis, chest, ear and urinary infections.

Today's launch comes as research shows 50% of Irish mothers or mothers to be feel that breastfeeding is a lot better than formula feeding.

However only 37% of Irish mother’s breastfeed compared to 98% in Norway, 99% Greece and 71% in UK.