Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 December 2018
348. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health his plans to introduce free contraception to all women (details supplied) in view of the introduction of a new general practitioner led abortion service in January 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52743/18]
View answer368. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Health his plans to provide free contraception to all women in line with the target to make women’s healthcare a priority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52901/18]
View answer378. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52912/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 348, 368 and 378 together.
Work is continuing on planning for the implementation of the ancillary recommendations of the Joint Committee on the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution. This includes exploring issues associated with enhancing access to contraception, with a view to developing evidence-based policy in this area.
Preparations are ongoing for the initial expansion of free access to condoms in 2019. Condom use has the advantage of reducing both crisis pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
