Mixed response to Health Minister's plan to extend free contraception scheme to 16-year-olds
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News that the Health Minister is seeking to extend the free contraception scheme to 16 year olds has been met with something of a mixed response.
Stephen Donnelly has confirmed that he is looking at extending the popular scheme, currently available to those aged 17 to 35, to a wider age range including those aged 16.
There are some legal and ethical concerns that have been raised with the minister as the age of consent is currently 17.
Mr Donnelly made the point that a 16-year-old is considered an adult and can make medical decisions for themselves and, should they wish, can avail of abortion services.
The Irish College of General Practitioners clinical lead for women’s health Dr Ciara McCarthy has said that it would like to see eligibility eventually expanded to all those of reproductive age.
Child safeguarding is an issue that has been raised, but Dr McCarthy noted that under Children First safeguarding, doctors are required to report any instances where there are any concerns that a young person is at risk of sexual abuse.
However, under Children First, teens aged between 15 and 17 are treated differently to those aged 14 and under.
A sexual relationship where one or both parties is under 17 is illegal. However under the national guidance, if a case meets specific criteria a mandated person is not required to report it to Tusla as it may not be regarded as child sexual abuse.
Dr McCarthy said that whether the contraception scheme is extended to younger people or not, there will be those who will continue to have sex and will be at risk of pregnancy.
The Irish Family Planning Association (IFPA) echoed this point but said that while it welcomes the movement on eligibility, the commitment should extend to all those under 17. IFPA medical director Dr Caitríona Henchion said:
"Irish law should be brought into line with Ireland’s obligations under international human rights law."
According to the World Health Organization, states should ensure that adolescents are not deprived of any sexual and reproductive health information or services due to providers’ conscientious objections.
Speaking on the matter, Finance Minister Jack Chambers said there would need to be a wider discussion and it would be a "matter for the Government to discuss".
Mr Donnelly has also spoken of plans to extend state-funded IVF, a move which has been welcomed by infertility support groups.
National Infertility Support and Information Group (NISIG) chairwoman Catríona Fitzpatrick said she is keen to see the criteria widened. Until the scheme is more open and inclusive, it is not possible to know what resources and funding will be needed to meet the demand, she said.