Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for coming to discuss this all-important issue of women's health to mark International Women's Day. There is nobody more committed than the Minister to resolving so many issues. I would like to raise a few issues with her. She referred to a few of them in her opening remarks. I campaigned on one of them during the previous Dáil and Seanad, which was the free HRT campaign. It was to be introduced in January but it has not happened to date. I know there was a shortage and there also have to be negotiations with pharmacies and the pharmacy union. From speaking to the pharmacy union, it is looking for engagement. Many women would benefit from the scheme once introduced. I am aware of the Government's commitment to its introduction.

I would also like to raise CervicalCheck and BreastCheck. CervicalCheck runs out between 60 and 65 years of age and BreastCheck between 60 and 69 years of age. These are preventatives. I would like the Minister to look at extending it.

The Minister referred to maternity issues in her speech. I wish to raise the maternity hospital in University Hospital Limerick. I believe the site was selected on the grounds of UHL about 15 years ago. There has been loads of talk of it moving but the conditions affect not only the staff, but also patients who avail of the hospital. It is on a very small site. There are many restrictions around visiting and supports for people attending it. Will the Minister look at this issue? There is also the area of perinatal health. Quite a high percentage of women end up with perinatal health issues but it is about going to meet the clinician, having that conversation and receiving that support. The last time I was at the maternity hospital in Limerick, there was a small box room and the waiting room was outside for every other area so everybody could see you in the room. It deserves more support and space.

I was delighted to hear the Minister mention endometriosis.

The area of cardiovascular health is very close to my heart. It is important to encourage people to get checked and keep checking. People do not realise until it happens to them.

On the cancer strategy, the work happening and the treatment people are receiving are fantastic but there is an issue relating to medical cards. When somebody is given a terminal diagnosis, he or she should automatically qualify for a medical card while having treatment because of the stress and strain it puts not only on the patient, but on the patient's family, in applying, being refused and having to appeal it.

Those are some issues on this International Women's Day.