NDP Health Critic France Gélinas called on the McGuinty Liberals to implement a provincial breastfeeding strategy based on the standards of the World Health Organization Baby friendly initiative.

“Breastfeeding is one of the most important and cost-effective health promotion initiatives. For both mother and child, the benefits of breastfeeding are nutritionally and emotionally invaluable. The McGuinty Liberals must establish a venue and support for mothers and babies to turn to when things go wrong,” said Gélinas.

Gélinas’ comments came after the clinic of Dr. Jack Newman, a world-renowned breastfeeding expert, is expected to close due to lack of funding. Dr. Newman has spent over 25 years helping new mothers and sees over 2,400 mothers and babies each year.

“Breastfeeding can decrease the risk of diabetes in children, of some cancers, of infections and obesity,” said Dr. Newman. “It can decrease mothers’ risk of breast cancer and other illnesses. Rather than pay for treatment of these problems, does it not make sense to prevent illness?”

Annette Gaffney, a 43-year-old new mother from Toronto, almost gave up breastfeeding because she was unable to get a proper diagnosis for a common yeast infection. After six weeks – and $300 spent on private lactation consultants – she final found support at the Newman clinic. “At least four other mothers have revealed to me that this particular problem was the cause of them quitting breastfeeding,” said Gaffney.

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) has called for the McGuinty government to set up a provincial breastfeeding strategy, saying that research clearly shows the health benefits children receive when they are breastfed exclusively for six months and beyond.

“Community based, Hospitals and Health Unit breastfeeding programs are helpful and would form an integral part of the Ontario Breastfeeding Strategy. A provincial breastfeeding strategy would not be expensive, it would yield tremendous health benefits, all it needs is government endorsement,” said Gélinas.