Marguerite Sinnott is a member of UCD’s leisure club and was in the baby pool with her three children on Wednesday afternoon when her youngest son became agitated.
“They told me I wasn’t allowed to breastfeed my child here, and I needed to leave the pool area and go into a cubicle in the changing room to feed him. This was humiliating and degrading in front of my young son and daughter.”
“I would like to know from UCD why staff feel so free, quick and willing to discriminate and humiliate breastfeeding women in your facility? I would like an apology and an explanation.”
For a full breakdown of the situation, read through the full Twitter thread below.
Yesterday at the @UCDFitness swimming pool I was shocked to be reprimanded by a staff member for breastfeeding my 7-month old baby, asked to leave, and to go to a changing cubicle to feed him. Here’s what happened and why it’s not ok… (1/x)
— marguerite sinnott (@rite20) February 16, 2023
In a response to Ms Sinnott posted on social media, a UCD spokesperson said: “Hi Marguerite, please accept our sincerest apologies. Rather than approach you, the member of staff should have explained to the individuals who complained that breastfeeding is rightfully permitted in all public places.”
Hi Marguerite, please accept our sincerest apologies. Rather than approach you, the member of staff should have explained to the individuals who complained that breastfeeding is rightfully permitted in all public places.
— UCD Sport & Fitness (@UCDFitness) February 16, 2023