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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Apr 2001

Vol. 534 No. 1

Written Answers. - Relationships and Sexuality Education Programme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

58 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on the progress to date of the Think Twice Every Time campaign regarding relationships and sexuality; and the total budget for the campaign. [9996/01]

The Think Twice Every Time campaign which I launched last November is targeted at men and women in the 18 to 35 year old age group. The aim of the Think Twice Every Time campaign is to help to inform and empower people about their relationships and their sexuality. The principal message of the campaign is that both partners are responsible for their own and each other's sexual health. In particular, both partners must take responsibility for preventing unwanted pregnancy and avoiding sexually-transmitted infection. The campaign seeks to raise awareness about a range of issues, including the fertility of the body, how pregnancy occurs, the safe and correct use of contraception, the prevention of sexually transmitted infection and the effect that alcohol can have in relation to decision making and risk taking.

In 2001 the campaign will involve a number of focused initiatives, including regional workshops, a media poster campaign and a national seminar. However, some of these initiatives have been postponed in light of the foot and mouth outbreak and will be rescheduled for a later date. Plans are also well advanced in the production of a website and a public information booklet. The campaign, which has an annual budget of £400,000, will run for an initial period of 12 months. The campaign is being implemented in partnership with the health boards, other statutory and non-statutory bodies and a variety of interest groups.

Question No. 59 answered with Question No. 40.

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