Hi all 
Speaking as an outsider, I would urge those of you who are passionate about
this issue to 'watch your language' (thanks Diane!).  Language can be used
to define or redefine the parameters of a debate.  In this case it sounds
very much like the term 'lay midwife' is being used to suggest that what is
proposed is ensuring that all practitioners who call themselves 'midwife'
are formally educated professionals.  The use of the term 'lay' suggests
that the proposed legislation would protect mothers from exploitation by
those who would pretend to be midwives (and are in no way trained).  And who
would not support such efforts?? When the you allow the debate to be framed
this way, you allow your position to be marginalised from the beginning.  I
would urge you to resist the use of this term in favour of 'professional
midwife' or 'direct-entry midwife' or something that characterises your
position more accurately. 
In Australia there are several direct entry midwifery programs run at
recognised universities. Students work towards an undergraduate degree in
midwifery.  They are employed in hospitals and birth centres.  Home birth
programs (based on the UK model) are beginning to emerge.  I suspect that it
is no co-incidence that there has been a move towards home-birth since the
first direct entry midwives graduated.
Good luck ... breastfeeding begins with birth
Regards
Nina Berry BA/Bed(Hons) Dip Arts(Phil)
Breastfeeding Counsellor
PhD Candidate - "Ethical Issues in the marketing of 'Toddler Milks'"

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