The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has launched new guidelines on improved statutory entitlements for working mothers, including paid breastfeeding breaks.
Under the new Maternity Protection (Amendment) Act, breastfeeding mothers returning to work will be entitled to one hour's paid time off each day to facilitate breastfeeding.
The mother can break up the time to breastfeed if the child is located near the workplace, or to express milk.
If the employer does not provide appropriate facilities for breastfeeding, the mother is entitled to additional paid time off to travel to a more suitable area.
The mother will retain these entitlements until the child is six months old.
According to the Department of Justice, the act will come into force in a few weeks' time.
The Taoiseach stressed the health benefits of breastfeeding, adding that employers had nothing to fear as higher staff morale would mean better productivity.
The new act also allows paid time off for antenatal care, and permits mothers to postpone maternity leave if a new baby is hospitalised.
