Finance Minister John O'Dowd and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt have welcomed the introduction of the Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill to the Assembly, marking the first legislative steps towards establishing a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme in Northern Ireland.

Currently, the law only officially recognises the death of a baby if it occurs after 24 weeks of pregnancy. The new scheme aims to provide formal recognition for bereaved families who have experienced the loss of a baby before this gestational period.

Speaking after the Bill was formally introduced, Finance Minister John O'Dowd said: "Losing a baby is an incredibly painful and overwhelming experience for everyone involved, including parents, family members, and loved ones. Today marks the start of the legislative process to establish a Baby Loss Certificate scheme which will help give bereaved families the opportunity to have formal recognition of their loss."

Minister O'Dowd emphasised his commitment to listening to the experiences of bereaved parents and families. "While the Assembly considers our Bill, my department, along with the Department of Health, will begin preparations to consult on the workings of the scheme with families, charities and bereavement organisations, to make sure the scheme being developed meets the needs of those who have suffered the tragic loss of a baby. I hope the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme will be operational by the end of the year."

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt echoed this sentiment, stating: "I recognise the trauma and pain of pregnancy and baby loss, and the enormous impact this can have on parents. I remain fully supportive of the introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme in Northern Ireland for parents who have suffered the loss of a child before 24 weeks gestation, and I welcome the introduction of this Bill to the Assembly."

Minister Nesbitt confirmed that his officials will continue to collaborate with the Department of Finance to advance this important scheme, which will include consulting with relevant stakeholders on the proposed details in due course.