Role of partners a necessity, not a luxury

Campaigners taking part in the march for maternity outside the Dáil.
Pictures: Derek Speirs

A NUMBER of people from Kerry were among hundreds of parents, mums and dads to be and supporters that gathered outside the gates of Dáil Éireann this Wednesday for the #MarchForMaternity campaign which demanded an end to partner restrictions during maternity care.

Politicians from all parties turned out and Health Minister, Stephen Donnelly, was urged to meet with those involved to discuss the ongoing impacts of the restrictions.

Actor Amy De Bhrún, best known for her work On Line of Duty, Cornation Street and Vikings, addressing the rally to recount her lived experience

He was asked to honour his commitment to end the exclusion of partners from full labour and emergency care.

#BetterMaternityCare campaigner Linda Kelly, who had her second baby during Covid-19, said the minister must ensure that maternity units revert to pre pandemic access for one nominated support partner.

The protesters insisted that partners play a crucial role and their presence during maternity care is a necessity and not a luxury.