Breastfeeding in Public - Taiwan's New Law

Women in Taiwan are now legally permitted to breastfeed their babies in public and those who try to prevent it, as in the case of five mothers who were forced to leave, will be heavily fined.

Under the new rule, anyone attempting to prevent breastfeeding in public will face a fine of up to 30,000 Taiwan dollars (990 US dollars), according to the Department of Health.

A museum in Taipei sparked public outcry when it asked five women to leave after they were found openly nursing their babies.

The fine will apply to government buildings, department stores, airports, train and metro stations which fail to set up nursing rooms, the department said in a statement.

"We urge the public to show more respect for nursing mothers, to support and create a friendly environment for breastfeeding," the statement said.

Source: AFP