I read with interest of this item on contraception. I cannot help noticing it is happening on the day the decision on Bessborough has been made. Considering the whole mother and baby scenario that happened in this country and the devastation faced by so many people born in Bessborough or who had children in Bessborough and do not know where their children are, it is poignant to have this conversation today. It is fantastic that women aged 17 to 35 can get free contraception. That is excellent but I agree with those who have said it should be extended to whenever child-bearing age ends. If it is 40 for me or 50 for you - whatever it is - that is what it should be. It should be based on the individual. I agree with the previous speaker that it is very disappointing to learn migrant women are not included in this. A vulnerable cohort of people come here to seek protection and to be helped. They are in a vulnerable situation with regard to contraception. I am sure it would not cost that much money to include them in the scheme, so I call for that to happen. I read in a report there is low awareness among women with disabilities and Traveller women. Why is that? We need things to be accessible to people. We need the message to be out there among disabled people that this is available to them if they are in that age group. I was concerned that condoms are not included. Many other things are included, which is fantastic, but condoms are often used. They are quick and easy, etc. I know from being around third level institutions that you can get them there but not everyone goes to third level institutions and they might not be in a youth service. I know if you go to the HSE sexual health clinic, you can get them there. That should be brought in. Condoms are priced around €5 or €6 for a packet of three - I did a quick search before I came in here. That is a lot if you are a student or are on a low income. If we include other things, we should include condoms as well. It is important to expand the scheme to as many women and people who need it as possible.

Sentiment score: 0.07