Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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175. To ask the Minister for Health the status of the roll-out of the HPV test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48528/18]

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 and reduce 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 is a priority, and it must be implemented in a way that prioritises quality and safety. Work on this complex project is well underway. Funding to implement the switch, and to extend HPV vaccination to boys subject to completion of the Health Technology Assessment currently underway by HIQA, has been allocated in Budget 2019, underlining the Government’s commitment to these essential projects.