Portlaoise hospital celebrates contribution of midwives

STAFF at Portlaoise hospital celebrated International Day of the Midwife on 5 May, joining colleagues across Ireland and around the world to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary contribution of midwives.

Celebrated annually, this day highlights the essential role midwives play in supporting the health and wellbeing of women, newborns, families and communities.

This year’s theme ‘One Million More Midwives’ reflects a clear and evidence-based global call to strengthen and invest in the midwifery workforce.

Midwives provide vital care across the life course, supporting women and families before, during and after birth, at some of life’s most important moments. However, global shortages remain, and in many settings, midwives are not enabled to practise to the full scope of their expertise.

Eileen Whelan, HSE Dublin and Midlands regional Director of Nursing and Midwifery, said: “Midwives provide vital care across the life course, supporting women and families before, during and after birth, at some of life’s most important moments.

“Evidence shows that when midwives are educated, supported and fully integrated into health systems, outcomes improve. Maternal and newborn deaths decrease and care becomes more accessible and respectful. Here in our region, we see every day the professionalism, leadership and compassion of our midwives.

“You advocate for women and families, lead service innovation, and contribute to research, education and quality improvement across our services. Your expertise matters. Your leadership matters. Your voice matters.

“Today, we celebrate you and reaffirm our commitment to supporting and sustainably developing midwifery for the future, ensuring midwives can practise to their full scope in safe, supportive environments. Because behind the call for one million more midwives are real women, real families and real communities. And investing in midwives saves lives.” HSE Dublin and Midlands regional executive officer Kate Killeen White added: “International Day of the Midwife is an important opportunity to recognise the dedication, expertise and compassion of our midwives across Dublin and the midlands. Every day, they provide safe, person-centred care, supporting women and families through pregnancy, birth and beyond. Investing in midwifery is essential to improving outcomes for women, babies and communities and I would like to sincerely thank all of our midwives for the invaluable role they play in our health services.” A range of activities took place across the region to celebrate the contribution of midwives, raise awareness of the profession and highlight the importance of continued investment in midwifery services.

Meanwhile, applications are being invited for the 2026/27 Higher Diploma in Midwifery HSE Sponsorship Programme, which will open from 27 May to 10 June 2026.

The HSE will hold an information webinar to learn more about the role and what the programme has to offer from 7pm to 8pm on Wednesday 13 May.