The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation is calling on the next government to recognise the work done by midwives and ensure staffing levels are safe.
They're being celebrated across the globe today on International Day of the Midwife.
It says there are 1,479 staff midwives in the public health service, which is below the scientifically recommended ratio of one midwife to every 29.5 births.
INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha says midwives here are doing vital work during the pandemic.
"The WHO have designated this year as the year of the midwife and the year of the nurse, and I think it's important we celebrate the good work that they do every day, but most particularly the fantastic frontline service they are now providing in the midst of this horrible pandemic."
