'Playing games with the truth': HSE faces renewed criticism over maternity restrictions 

Campaigners pointed out that pregnant women will be able to book appointments to shop in Penney's from next week but they are not being permitted the support of a partner for appointments, scans and in early labour.

Campaigners have accused the HSE of "playing games with the truth" regarding restrictions in maternity hospitals.

The HSE has written to the country's 19 maternity hospitals asking them to give expectant fathers and birthing partners more access during the birth and for scans. However, this remains at the discretion of individual managers.