Family planning legislation and services
The Minister said the departmental review was complete, with reform proposals to go to Government within a month; no legislative timetable or external consultation was set. He was reluctant to direct health boards but would discuss service provision with them, including complaints about the Eastern Health Board’s failure to respond to Finglas residents’ request for a clinic service.
asked the Minister for Health if the review of the family planning legislation has been completed; the organisations or bodies he consulted during the review; and when he will introduce legislation to provide full family planning advice and facilities in all cases where needed.
Comment on this
The review has been completed. As I indicated in reply to a question on 9 February, the review was undertaken within the Department of Health. It did not, therefore, involve formal consultation with outside bodies.
I hope to submit proposals to the Government for changes in the legislation but it is too soon to say when legislation will be introduced.
Comment on this
Could the Minister indicate if he intends to introduce a new Bill or does he intend to bring in amendments to existing legislation?
Comment on this
The existing Act in in need of reform and I am proceeding in that context in accordance with the joint programme for Government.
Comment on this
I presume the Minister will ignore earlier representations from various organisations which forced an amendment in this House recently. Would the Minister instruct health boards to provide a comprehensive family planning service as they are required to do under the present Act where the need is shown to exist?
Comment on this
I intend to discuss the matter with the health boards but I am loath to issue formal directions on the matter because there is some doubt as to whether I have authority to formally direct the health boards in that regard. Health boards have the opportunity, the entitlement and the funds available to provide full family planning facilities for the population within their respective areas.
Comment on this
In the Finglas area, over 2,000 adults wrote to the Eastern Health Board to provide a family planning service through their local clinics but they have failed to get any response, apart from a photocopy of a two-year-old policy statement.
Comment on this
If the Deputy gives me details in that area, I will consult with the health boards. Deputy O'Brien and I will be meeting officials from the Eastern Health Board tomorrow and we will raise that matter.
