Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 1 December 2015

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children

HIV Incidence in Ireland: Discussion

4:00 pm

Photo of Jerry ButtimerJerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

If members are happy with that, I will thank the witnesses most sincerely. It is important that we celebrate and commemorate world AIDS day today and that we raise awareness and educate people. Education is key. I hope that the people watching and listening to this meeting will read the in-depth papers provided by the witnesses. As Mr. Brady stated, early diagnosis can improve outcomes. It is important to get tested. Equally, it is important to note that one can have a positive sexual life.

If we return in this capacity next year, I hope to hold another meeting. As Deputy Ó Caoláin stated, that our committee has tackled and raised issues of social complexity and brought awareness of and visibility to them during the lifetime of this Oireachtas is important.

Deputy McLellan referred to "Emmerdale". One of the most vivid images that I have is of the film "Philadelphia". If people were to watch it, they would see the journey that we have taken. I thank the witnesses for attending and those in the public Gallery for their work.

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