Cuidiú, a charity which provides antenatal education through parent-to-parent support in Waterford has been heavily criticised by Aontú leader, Peadar Tóibín.

His criticism is directed towards the charity’s monthly breastfeeding group meetings aimed at ‘pregnant parents nursing newborns, older children, assistance with combination feeding, or anyone providing milk.’

The group meets in various locations across Waterford to offer support to parents, including in Carrickphierish Library on the second Thursday of each month.

Chest Feeding Language

Peadar Tóibín has accused the HSE, which according to the Irish Daily Mail, gives at least €30,000 to the charity, of ‘driving this insulting nonsense.’

His comments refer to the terminology used in the name of the group, which is ‘Breast/Chest Feeding Group.’

Reflecting on the wording used, he said that ‘chestfeeding isn’t a thing’ and that ‘only women can breastfeed.’

The Aontú leader called for an end to what he called ‘the eradication of female-specific language’ in which he says is ‘in the very confused name of inclusion and equality.’

WLR has contacted Cuidiú Waterford for comment on Mr Tóibín’s views.

Lactation Conference Controversy

Earlier this week, it was confirmed that a lactation conference, which was due to take place in Galway this coming October would no longer be held in person, but online instead.

The decision follows significant discussion surrounding one of the speakers associated with the event, Jacob Engelsman.

Allegations emerged that Mr. Engelsman, an international board certified lactation consultant from America, would offer advice for men who wished to breastfeed.

It’s understood that he will no longer speak at the event.