Anthony Lawlor (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Acting Chairman. I probably spoke a little longer because this is my first Commencement matter.

The Minister of State spoke mostly about the cost of contraception. It is easy to discover how much it costs because many people a medical card. Therefore, one can easily analyse the cost per head by analysing how many avail of existing services.

I am disappointed that the Minister of State did not mention sexual health education. There are medical practitioners who are willing, if asked, to go into schools to provide such education. I suggest the Departments of Health and Education and Skills become involved in providing such education. The latter Department could issue directives to various school boards of management to encourage them to invite medical practitioners to their schools. Such education is really important, particularly as the referendum has been passed. It is known that free contraceptive care and increased knowledge reduce the number of crisis and unplanned pregnancies. I urge the Government to introduce an integrated scheme to provide free contraceptive care and the necessary education for all citizens. Let us be mindful of the fact that sexual health is an issue for both males and females.