Vol. 417 No. 7
64 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to reports that a number of Irish emigrants who have returned home from the US in connection with the visa application process have been diagnosed HIV positive; and the steps he is taking to provide counselling and support for such people.
HIV anti-body testing is done in this country on a totally confidential basis. Only the doctor dealing with the case would know the details of the person presenting for testing and I would not therefore be aware of any specific reports, as outlined by the Deputy.
With regard to counselling and support for persons who test HIV positive, there is a range of statutory and non-statutory organisations involved in providing support services to persons with HIV/AIDS and their families. Information about these agencies is available through health boards or can be obtained in the free booklet AIDS — The Facts published by my Department's health promotion unit.
