The programme for Government makes a commitment to improve cancer prevention and treatment. The Tánaiste will know this is European cervical cancer prevention week, which is a critical issue. The Irish Family Planning Association and CervicalCheck are running their annual Pearl of Wisdom campaign. Each year 260 women in Ireland are diagnosed with cervical cancer and up to 70 lives are lost. Public awareness on screening is essential and women aged between 25 and 60 can avail of regular free checks.

However, we all remember the recent controversy over the HPV vaccine. It is essential that we continue to communicate the effectiveness of vaccination. I ask the Tánaiste to provide clarity as to whether the Government has decided to extend this vital life-saving vaccine to boys as well as to girls?

I do not have the answer to that question, but I can get it for the Deputy. I absolutely support what he said on the need to raise awareness and the need to debunk myths on the use of vaccines. We need to remind parents and young women that vaccination offers real protection and it is something that everybody should think about. The Minister, Deputy Harris, has been very vocal on the issue and will continue to be. I can get an answer to the specific question about boys for the Deputy.