Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As outlined, menopause has been recognised by the women's health task force as a priority healthcare issue impacting women. Significant activity is planned for this year to increase awareness and access to information, which was a key ask from the women of Ireland. As the Senator has said, it is only right and fitting to acknowledge the work of the Minister for Health, who is progressing these new initiatives. While GPs can advise women who experience difficult menopausal symptoms on potential treatments and lifestyle changes that may benefit them, discussion has also taken place on the provision of potential additional supports in this area. I will be happy to speak further on those once they are finalised. Both the Department and the HSE are very much engaged and committed to driving progress in this important area. I again thank the Senator for inviting me in today to speak on this very important issue. I have no doubt that the voice of the women's caucus will be very loud in progressing this matter.