New Infant Feeding Room Opens at St Conal’s Hospital Campus, Letterkenny

A new dedicated Infant Feeding room has officially opened at St Conal’s Hospital Campus in Letterkenny today, providing a comfortable, private and welcoming space for mothers and carers who wish to feed infants or express milk while attending the campus.

The opening coincides with International Women’s Day on the 8th March, recognising the importance of supporting women’s health and wellbeing and ensuring mothers feel supported when accessing healthcare services.

Mary McFeely, Lactation Consultant Donegal welcomed the opening of the new space and highlighted the importance of supportive environments for breastfeeding saying, “Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits for both mothers and babies, and it is important that women feel supported wherever they are. Having a dedicated breastfeeding room at St Conal’s Hospital helps ensure that mothers attending the hospital have a quiet, comfortable space where they can feed their babies or express milk with confidence and dignity.”

The development also supports the HSE Breastfeeding Policy, which aims to protect, promote and support breastfeeding across all health services in Ireland. The policy recognises breastfeeding as a vital public health measure and encourages health facilities to create environments that make breastfeeding easier for mothers.

Rachel Gillespie, who was present at today’s launch and who recently used the new room with her infant son, described the positive impact it had during a St Conal’s visit, “As a new mum, it can sometimes be difficult to find a comfortable place to feed your baby when you’re away from home. Having this room available at St Conal’s made a huge difference. It felt private, calm and really welcoming, and it showed that breastfeeding mothers are genuinely supported by the HSE.”

Siobhan Patten, General Manager, Health and Wellbeing, also welcomed the initiative saying, “Creating supportive environments for breastfeeding is an important part of promoting health and wellbeing of mothers, babies and families. The opening of this new facility around International Women’s Day highlights the importance of recognising and supporting women’s health needs. Spaces like this help ensure that women and carers feel comfortable and supported when attending our services and demonstrating our ongoing commitment to making breastfeeding visible, normal and supported across healthcare settings.”

The Infant Feeding room is now available to mothers and carers attending services at St Conal’s Hospital, and to HSE Staff availing of breastfeeding breaks and is located opposite the main reception.