Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Buttimer. I am glad he has welcomed the funding and I commend him for his work on this issue. In addition to the important initiatives on sexual health which I outlined in my opening statement, I would like to conclude by providing some further information on other measures being taken in this important area of health and well-being.

A key element in the prevention of infection is condom use. The national condom distribution service works directly with at-risk groups and in 2018 the service provided 409,000 condoms to 67 organisations working with at-risk groups. This service is currently being expanded to provide services to third level students, by way of condom dispensing machines on third level campus facilities.

A particular focus of the sexual health strategy is on equipping our young people with the knowledge and skills to meet the challenges of relationships and sexual health. I will also bring the Senator's message on the February date back to the Minister, Deputy Harris.