Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

However, when they talk nonsense it is possible to ignore what the Opposition has to say. It is important to bear in mind also that at least 30% of cervical cancers are caused by HPV types not covered by the vaccine, as many contributors have already pointed out.

In the context of the cancer programme upon which the Government has embarked, there are a number of priorities from a clinical point of view. Clearly, the first priority is to ensure that we organise our cancer services to deliver better outcomes for patients. This includes supporting the national roll-out of the cervical screening programme. We remain persuaded as to the important role that HPV vaccination can play in preventing cervical cancer. The evidence on this is clear. Unfortunately, however, the finances require that we make these difficult choices. I assure the House that we are fully committed to the introduction of a vaccination programme——

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