Deirdre Clune (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

I am glad to learn the Minister is committed to rolling out this programme from the beginning of next year although a delay has arisen. I have concerns regarding the quality of laboratories and the availability of laboratory time. At present many smears taken must be outsourced.

On a related question, what are the Minister's views on, and has she any plans to introduce, a vaccine programme against cervical cancer? Such a programme would be aimed at younger people and much discussion has taken place in this regard. Where stands the Minister? Obviously this would involve a financial commitment. I refer to the vaccine programme for cervical cancer.

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