John O'Dowd and Mike Nesbitt

The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill will provide for the issuing of certificates which recognise stillbirths or the loss of a baby during pregnancy.

Under current legislation, the death of a baby is only officially recognised if it occurs after the 24th week of pregnancy.

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.

“I am committed to ensuring the voices of bereaved parents and families are heard.

“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 said: “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.

“My officials will continue to work with their counterparts in the Department of Finance to progress this important scheme, and that will include consulting with stakeholders on proposals in due course.”