Vol. 421 No. 5
31 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Health when he intends to publish his proposed amended Family Planning Bill as outlined by him on becoming Minister for Health; and if he will outline the other amending legislation he intends introducing during the term of the current Dáil.
44 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Health his views on whether the range of family planning services provided by health boards is adequate; if he has any plans for changes in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
78 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Health when he proposes to introduce the promised revised Family Planning Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
124 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will outline his views on the way in which the law on contraception might best be amended.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31, 44, 78 and 124 together.
Family planning services are available at present in each health board area. The services are provided by general practitioners, voluntary organisations and in some areas by licensed family planning clinics. Comprehensive information and advice in relation to family planning is also readily available through other professional personnel in both hospital and community settings.
The Health (Family Planning) (Amendment) Bill, 1991 is awaiting consideration by the Dáil. The Bill provides for an increase in the range of outlets permitted to sell contraceptives and for a reduction in the age limit at which persons may buy them for 18 years to 17 years.
I am at present consulting with my colleagues in Government with a view to considering what amendments if any, should be made to the Bill. I will make a full statement when the Bill is being considered by the House.
With regard to the other amending legislation referred to by the Deputy, the position, as I outlined to the House earlier this month, is that I am reviewing the legislative and other priorities of my Department. When this review is complete I will be announcing a comprehensive programme of action for the health services which will include measures to tackle problem areas, to improve efficiency and accountability, to strengthen the role of health care and to increase the emphasis on health promotion. It is my intention to bring legislation to amend the Health Act, 1970 before the Oireachtas this year. A Green Paper on Mental Health has recently been published as a first step towards new legislation in that area.
