Fiona O'Malley (Dún Laoghaire, Progressive Democrats)

I am grateful for the opportunity to speak on this matter. I am aware the Finance Bill was passed yesterday. Considering what measures can be taken for the next budget is good planning.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer in Britain reduced the rate of VAT on condoms to 5%. Given the incidence and growth of sexually transmitted infections we must consider preventative measures. Condoms prevent sexually transmitted infections as well as acting as contraceptives. They are also an important weapon in the fight against HIV and AIDS. With VAT rates of21%, Ireland has the most expensive condoms in Europe. Given the nature of sexual activity, we must remember that young people may not be able to afford condoms.

We should also reflect on prevention of pregnancies as we all deal with the results of pregnancies, particularly those that are unwanted. It is always better to invest in prevention rather than cure. The tax that would be foregone by zero rating condoms would not be considerable given the impact it could have on the health of the nation. The statistics for sexually transmitted infection have been rising at an alarming rate in recent years. We must take strong action on preventative measures and making condoms much cheaper by reducing VAT on them would be one way of doing this. We have much to learn from the British example on this and as we look forward to the next budget I hope the Minister will consider zero rating condoms given the important place they have in the prevention and control of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

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