Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State, Deputy Noonan, for taking this matter. I ask him to outline the plans by the Department of Health for the introduction of the free contraception scheme for 17- to 25-year-olds, which is due to happen in August. I am seeking clarification as to whether it needs to be done by way of legislation or by means of regulation. If the former, when will we see the draft Bill and a timeframe for bringing it forward? My understanding is that it is not clear whether legislation or regulation is required.

My second point relates to engagement with GPs on the scheme. Are there plans to provide training for GPs, especially in respect of long-acting reversible contraceptives, LARCs? Has there been engagement with the Irish Medical Organisation, IMO, on the introduction of the scheme? Has the Department looked at the geographical spread of GPs available to provide support in the implementation of the scheme? Has there been engagement with the HSE on the scheme?

Are there plans afoot for the roll-out of a public information plan on the introduction of the scheme and, if so, when is that campaign likely to begin? An important issue to consider is that third level colleges will be coming back in the second or third week of September. Is the Government satisfied there is adequate support within the colleges in respect of the roll-out of the scheme?

It is important that we get this clarification now and that planning starts in respect of the information that must be disseminated to the public to ensure it will be available in a timely manner.

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