New visiting times have been introduced at Letterkenny University Hospital to allow birth partners to visit the maternity ward after a baby has been delivered.

From Monday 31st August, the restrictions have been changed to allow the birth partner or next of kin, if the partner is not available, to have a single visit for two hours post-delivery. This visiting time will be allowed between 8am and 8.30pm.

Outside of these times, the partner will be allowed a 30 minute visit the following day at an allocated time.

In the event that a mother and baby’s hospital stay is greater than 48 hours, partners will be offered a two hour visit and the scheduled time will be decided after the daily ward round.

A spokesperson for the Saolta Hospital Group said: “Visits by partners will be subject to screening for COVID-19 risk factors and visiting will not be permitted if any risk factors are present.

“Visitor restrictions are in place in the Maternity Department at Letterkenny University Hospital to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect all mothers, babies and healthcare staff. This policy is under continual review.”