Finance Minister and Health Minister have welcomed the first steps
in introducing the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme.
Under current legislation, the death of a baby is only officially
recognised if it occurs after the 24th week of pregnancy.
Speaking after the Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill was
formally introduced to the Assembly, Finance Minister said: “Losing a baby is
an incredibly painful and overwhelming experience for everyone
involved, including parents, family members, and loved
ones.
“Today marks the start of the legislative process to
establish a Baby Loss Certificate scheme which will help give
bereaved families the opportunity to have formal recognition of
their loss.
“I am committed to ensuring the voices of bereaved
parents and families are heard. While the Assembly considers our
Bill, my department, along with the Department of Health, will
begin preparations to consult on the workings of the scheme with
families, charities and bereavement organisations, to make sure
the scheme being developed meets the needs of those who have
suffered the tragic loss of a baby.
“I hope the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme will be
operational by the end of the year.”
Health Minister said: “I recognise the
trauma and pain of pregnancy and baby loss, and the enormous
impact this can have on parents. I remain fully supportive of the
introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme in Northern
Ireland for parents who have suffered the loss of a child before
24 weeks gestation, and I welcome the introduction of this Bill
to the Assembly.
“My officials will continue to work with their
counterparts in the Department of Finance to progress this
important scheme, and that will include consulting with
stakeholders on proposals in due course.”
