Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 74: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will reconsider her decision to cancel the intended introduction of the HPV vaccine programme in 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26325/09]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 137: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if the evidence in support of cervical cancer vaccines for young women is being reviewed in her Department; if the decision to withdraw the planned programme is expected to be reconsidered; and if it is her advice that parents should fund this vaccine privately if they can afford to do so. [26588/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 137 together.

I am on record as saying that I am already convinced, based on the expert advice that I have received and considered, as to the important role a HPV vaccine programme would play as part of a cohesive response to cervical cancer. All of the clinical advice available to me indicates that, in the context of the limited resources available, the national roll-out of a cervical screening programme should take precedence over the introduction of a HPV vaccination programme. The National Cervical Screening Programme, CervicalCheck, is being implemented at a full year cost of €43 million. I am fully committed to keeping the introduction of a HPV vaccination programme under active review. As with all childhood vaccines, an organised population based programme is the optimum means of delivery.