(Limerick East): The number of girls under 15 years giving birth in the State is relatively low. In 1987 there were 50, in 1990 there were 66 and 57 in 1993, the year for which I have the latest figures.
My Department is not aware of any specific recent study regarding the risk of prematurity to mothers in this age group. However, it is generally accepted that prematurity is more likely if various risk factors are involved. These include factors such as a first birth, the mother being part of the lower socio-economic group, poor levels of nutrition, smoking and poor attendance at ante-natal facilities.
While the pregnant under-15s are not by virtue of the age of mother more prone to premature births, one or more of the above factors may be more prevalent in the group, which would explain the high incidence of prematurity.
A range of family planning services is available in each health board area through general practitioners, maternity hospitals and units, non-governmental agencies and pharmacists. There are concerns, however, that the service does not fully meet the needs of all groups within the population. I am currently addressing these concerns under the health strategy to determine to what extent improvements are required.
An integral element of a comprehensive family planning service, of course, is the provision of education and counselling on all legal methods of contraception. In this context, the recent initiative launched by my colleague, the Minister for Education, in primary and post-primary schools is most welcome.
