Speaking after a meeting with Karen Murray, Northern Ireland Director of the Royal College of Midwives, the South Belfast MLA said: “I am happy to endorse the Royal College of Midwives’ blueprint for better maternity care in Northern Ireland, and to join it in further calling for a Maternity Strategy.

“We discussed the need for a comprehensive maternity network, including improved data and a consistent, regional approach to safety issues.

“We also need to broaden public awareness of the vital role played by midwives, not least since there are no earlier interventions than the ones they provide. They play an essential part in the overall healthcare system, which is why a comprehensive Maternity Strategy in line with the blueprint already proposed by the College is so vital.”