Vol. 394 No. 8
51 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the importance of condoms as a method for preventing the spread of AIDS, he will consider amending legislation to provide for an increase in the number of outlets where condoms can be sold and especially to allow outlets other than pharmacies to sell them; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The Health (Family Planning) (Amendment) Act, 1985 removed the requirement for persons aged 18 years and over to have a doctor's prescription for the purchase of contraceptives from pharmacies. It also extended the range of outlets permitted to sell contraceptives to include registered medical practitioners, certain employees of health boards, licensed family planning clinics and hospitals providing maternity services or services for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. It is believed that public demand for condoms is adequately catered for and the necessity for amending legislation does not arise.
