Peter Barry
Question:306 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Health the number of outlets officially designated for the sale of condoms; if restrictions on their sale are displayed in these outlets; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Sale of Condoms.
The sale and supply of condoms is governed by sections 4 and 5 of the Health (Family Planning) Act, 1992. Under the legislation, outlets are not required to be officially designated for the sale of condoms. Section 5 of the Act requires that condoms may only be supplied to persons over the age of 17 years or who are married. The sale of condoms must also be under the supervision of a person over the age of 17 years.
The sale of condoms is however prohibited through the following outlets; vending machines, mobile outlets, street vendors, primary or secondary schools, youth clubs or sports centres, catering for persons under the age of 17 years. As provided for under the Programme for a Partnership Government, the Government is committed to bringing a new Bill to the Oireachtas, before the summer, to amend the existing Act and to provide for the more widespread availability of condoms.