Labour Youth calls for free contraception

Responding to Health Minister Mary Harney’s statement earlier this week that she would consider lifting VAT on condoms, labour Youth have called on the Government to introduce universal provision of free contraception.

Labour Youth Vice-Chair, Neil Ward, commented “Condoms are more expensive in Ireland than in any other European country. To redress the balance Labour Youth called for provision of free contraception in our pre-budget submission of November last year.

“If the Government is serious about tackling Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), then they must show their commitment by not simply lifting VAT on condoms, but by providing them free of charge.

“Labour Youth believe that the state should help ensure that all citizens are protected from STIs and unplanned pregnancies by making contraception available without cost to the individual.”

ENDS

For further information please contact Neil Ward 085 713 4159