Baby boxes must be rolled out in Ireland – Richmond

Ireland should roll out baby boxes for new parents nationally, with the Scottish scheme showing hugely positive effects, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Neale Richmond said, “In 2019, more than 45,000 baby boxes were delivered across Scotland with 96% of parents taking up the scheme and returning an amazing 100% satisfaction rate.

“Minister for Children Katherine Zappone has put in place a trial of the baby boxes in Limerick and Wexford but it is time now for the scheme to be rolled out nationwide.

“Immensely popular in Scotland, as well as in other countries such as Finland, the baby box provides parents of new born with a head-start when it comes to welcoming their new born into the world.

“The Baby Box provides essential products for families and babies such as blankets, nappies, a digital ear thermometer, some clothes and much more.

“Not only do the contents of the ensure every child has an equal start in life but the box itself can be used as a crib. The Scottish Government has even ensured the boxes have a Scottish theme with pictures of famous landmarks such as Ben Nevis and Edinburgh on the outside.

“Quite simply, it is time that we see these boxes introduced on a national scale here,” Senator Richmond concluded.