Breastfeeding exemption. Wanting to go further

I assume that the debate surrounding changes to the labor code is motivated by a desire for greater maternity protection, better conditions for breastfeeding, and concern for the well-being of families. I share this desire.

Therefore, if so many agree, there will be political and social conditions to want to go further, in the defense of public policies for the family, for the protection of children, for the reconciliation of family and work.

Usually attentive to these issues, I confess that it took me a while to understand what was at stake.

Between the statements made by the Minister of Labor, the reactions of political parties from the left to the right, the Order of Physicians, and other social partners, I realized there was some confusion, generating perplexity and excessive reactions. Once again, in the media bubble, more noise than clarification.

Otherwise, let's see:

In the current wording of the Labor Code (article 47, paragraph 1), “a mother who breastfeeds her child has the right to be excused from work for this purpose, for the duration of breastfeeding.” The new wording of the same paragraph determines a limitation on the breastfeeding period – “until the child reaches two years of age.”

This therefore involves introducing clarification regarding breastfeeding duration, in line with the opinions issued by the Portuguese Medical Association, the Association of Family Doctors and the DGS.

The other issue is the mandatory presentation of medical certificates proving breastfeeding, a requirement that is criticized by health professionals and other social actors.

These two changes are sparking conflict and criticism. They're seen as a loss of rights, a step backward, and a measure against the family. Once again, less careful communication creates difficulties that are difficult to overcome.

I believe that through social consultation, an understanding can be worked out, and that a consensus can be reached.

A possible compromise would be:

1. acceptance of limited breastfeeding time;
2. the acceptance of a commitment of honor by the mother that she is breastfeeding, without the need for medical certificates.

I am certain that the Assembly of the Republic will also be able to work towards a political understanding that will allow us to overcome the differences that have arisen.

Let us be aware that much more is needed in a country experiencing serious demographic changes and one of the lowest birth rates in the world!

There's a shortage of children. There's a shortage of families with children. Not because they don't want them, but because it's very difficult.

The more a society and culture “gets used to” not having children, the more this reinforces it and children do not appear.

I know that there are very difficult problems to solve, such as housing, low wages, and stable work.

But there are paths that can be taken now, if we want to go further.

Two suggestions.

Expand Happy Daycare to ALL children. Childcare facilities must be nearby and accessible. Difficulties in finding daycare spaces are one of the biggest obstacles young parents face.

Reducing working time for parents during the first two years of a child's life, without relying on breastfeeding. This would be much fairer, more effective, and more equitable. This would be a powerful signal to society. Time spent with children in the first years of life is essential for their physical and emotional development.

I ask the government to be bold. I ask the Assembly of the Republic to legislate. I remind society and businesses that working conditions are also an investment.