HSE wants easing of maternity restrictions as confusion lingers over 'active labour' definition

HSE CEO Paul Reid at Dr Steevens’ Hospital for the weekly HSE operational update on the response to Covid-19. The HSE has said it is working with maternity hospitals to help them safely ease restrictions as Covid-19 case numbers continue to decline, he said. Photo: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

The HSE has said it is working with maternity hospitals to help them safely ease restrictions as Covid-19 case numbers continue to decline.

Maternity hospitals reported on Wednesday to the HSE and Health Minister Stephen Donnelly on their restrictions status. Just five said they are unable to follow the HSE standard of allowing partners attend the 20-week scan, labour and birth.