Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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376. To ask the Minister for Health the reason the timeline for rolling out the HPV test by October 2018 was missed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43256/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I gave approval earlier this year for a switch to HPV testing as the primary cervical screening test, with cytology as a reflex test. This change will improve the sensitivity of testing, reducing the number of false negatives arising, although it is important to be clear that false negatives will always be part of any cervical screening programme.

This change in testing remains a priority, but it must be implemented in a way that prioritises quality and safety.  Work on this complex project is well under way, with the intention of making the switch to HPV screening as soon as possible.  Funding to implement the switch, and to extend HPV vaccination to boys subject to completion of the Health Technology Assessment currently under way by HIQA, has been allocated in Budget 2019, underlining the Government’s commitment to these essential projects.