Press Releases
O'Malley renews call for cut in cost of condoms
Progressive Democrats TD Fiona O'Malley has today repeated her call for better promotion of sex education in schools, greater access to and availability of contraceptives, and either a removal or reduction in the VAT charged on condoms in the upcoming Budget.
Deputy O'Malley made the call in response to a new survey from the Crisis Pregnancy Agency, due to be published this week, which has found an 'inconsistent' use of condoms by young Irish people and a reliance on sex education from the media and friends as opposed to schools.
'More effective sex education programmes must be introduced in our schools and at an earlier age. There must also be a greater commitment across the board to implementing these programmes and ensuring they are effective.'
'We cannot afford to brush this problem under the carpet as we have done with similar problems in the past. We need greater openness when it comes to discussing matters of sexual health and identity. Neither should the burden be placed solely on teachers – parents also have an important role to play."
'The simple truth is that teenagers are having sex - what we need to do is reduce the numbers who are having unprotected sex.
'We need increased education and awareness campaigns, wider availability of condoms, especially in rural areas, and an overall reduction in price.'
'The Crisis Pregnancy Survey has highlighted cost as deterring some young people from using condoms. If a relatively simple measure like removing the VAT on condoms would increase their usage, then I would urge the Minister for Finance to give it serious consideration.
Deputy O'Malley is a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Health & Children and a member of the Dáil All-Party Group concerned with issues of sexual and reproductive health.