SDLP Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin
It follows a warning from the academic Ciara Fitzpatrick that due to the cost-of-living crisis, new parents are making “unspeakable decisions” about feeding their babies.
The local MLA has also questioned Health Minister Robin Swann on what steps are being taken to support parents who are unable to afford the rising costs of baby formula, as well as what steps are being taken to promote the NHS’ Healthy Start Scheme that provides limited help for people who are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4 years old to buy healthy food and milk.
Said Ms McLaughlin: “I find it shameful that in 2022, parents in our society and especially women are finding it impossible to afford essential items like baby formula.
“We knew that this crisis is not impacting everyone equally, but it’s just horrifying to think of the parents of young children who are having to choose to go without meals of their own in order to afford formula.
“The current crisis is leading to panic for many parents, including who are able to work every hour that is sent to them.
“Parents are not asking for much. They are just asking to be able to afford the basics for their children.
“In a civilised society, we should be able to give them that and yet we’re virtually powerless to help at Stormont due to the ongoing DUP boycott.
“It’s indefensible that DUP politicians still won’t go into work and do their jobs, even then they hear such harrowing stories like these.
“The actions of the DUP could lead to the announcement of an election that will cost millions while people freeze in their homes this winter. I don’t know how they can look constituents in the eye,” added the Foyle MLA.
