MOTHERS AND babies will gather in a Cork shopping centre this Saturday in a bid to set a new world record for the most children breastfeeding at one time.
When the babies “latch on” at 11am in the mezzanine area of the Mahon Point centre, they will be taking part in a global challenge.
Along with their mothers, they will also be reinforcing the message that breastfeeding is not only the best but the normal way to feed a child, says event organiser Maria Moulton.
The Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge is one of a number of events around the country to mark National (and World) Breastfeeding Week, from October 1st to 7th.
The Health Service Executive will focus on raising awareness of the support services available for breastfeeding mothers.
Ireland has the lowest rate of breastfeeding in the world, with only one in two mothers starting breastfeeding, whereas in Scandinavian countries almost all do.
Among babies here who are breast-fed initially, the majority are switched to formula within the first few months, although breast milk is recommended for two years and beyond.
Lack of support and perceived difficulties about feeding in public are seen as two key obstacles to women continuing to breastfeed.
The Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge originated in Canada nine years ago, with 850 babies being fed simultaneously at 26 places within British Columbia. By 2009, 21 countries were involved and the organisers are hoping for a record turnout this year.
Friends of Breastfeeding, which was formed in 2009 to foster a positive breastfeeding culture in Ireland, is also hosting a number of events during the week, including an art exhibition at the Mahon Point Shopping Centre this weekend.
Registration for the breastfeeding challenge is from 10am at Mahon Point on Saturday. For more information, see Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge Cork on Facebook.
See also friendsofbreastfeeding.ie and breastfeeding.ie
