§ Mr. ConnartyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action is being taken to encourage health boards to offer midwife-only beds and midwife-only care to low risk pregnant women in all maternity units.
§ Mr. AncramThe Department of Health and Social Services would wish to encourage health and social services boards to make full use of the skills and expertise which the midwifery profession can offer. It will be considering the implications for Northern Ireland on how best the role played by midwives in the care of low risk pregnant women can be enhanced. The Department has also recently established its own study group to consider the scope for developing maternity units led by midwives and/or general practitioners.