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Legislation that will introduce a certificate to acknowledge baby loss during pregnancy before 24 weeks has been passed by the Assembly.
The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill passed its final stage on Tuesday 2 December, allowing bereaved parents to access an official document acknowledging a baby lost during pregnancy before 24 weeks. The move has been welcomed by Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins, who originally brought the proposal forward to the Assembly as a motion in April 2024.
Ms Kimmins said: "I am delighted that this Bill has now passed. I originally brought this forward to the Assembly as a motion in April 2024 seeking the introduction of baby loss certificates, and it is hugely positive to see our Sinn Féin team successfully drive it through."
Ms Kimmins said the devastation caused by the loss of a baby often goes untold, with parents and their families left to grieve and come to terms with such heartbreak. She added: "The passing of this legislation is a positive step forward, allowing bereaved parents to access an official document acknowledging a baby lost during pregnancy before 24 weeks."
The MLA praised the work of ministers Caoimhe Archibald and John O'Dowd in progressing the certificate scheme and supporting parents during an immensely challenging time.
Ms Kimmins said Sinn Féin is also working to deliver paid leave for parents who suffer a miscarriage as well as paid leave for parents during neonatal care. She added: "We must keep working together to pass more progressive policies and support those struggling in our communities."
