Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for that positive response. It is great to know that the programme is on course to deliver within the timeframe.

Regarding my first question, I am still unsure as to whether the free contraception programme will start in August. I assume from the Minister of State's answer that it will.The fact that it is to be reviewed for an older cohort once it is up and running is very welcome.

I am delighted that University Maternity Hospital Limerick has also been included in the clinics. This is very welcome news. I thank the Minister of State and the Department for their commitment to women's health. It is an area that has been forgotten for a long time so it is very welcome news.

The Minister of State also spoke about the inclusion of food banks. There are people in poverty who go to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and such places. It is important that there is engagement with those places regarding the provision of products.