A Government backbencher called for a national sexual health strategy. Fiona O'Malley (PD, Dún Laoghaire) said that sexual health was the one area in which people were criticised for trying to inform and educate the public.
"The figures speak for themselves." Ms O'Malley said that there had been a 12 per cent increase in the incidence of sexually transmitted infections. "The increase represents a runaway problem despite the fact that a certain condom manufacturer is highlighting what can be achieved through condom use in protecting against sexually transmitted diseases, not to mention HIV and Aids."
She said that the former North Eastern Health Board had prepared a strategy, so much of the groundwork was done.
"Young people are looking for access to services and information that is presented in a non-judgmental way. Unfortunately, they do not always get this.
"In an article in The Irish Times this week, a commentator stated it is most unfortunate that people are being asked to consider the use of condoms.
"The commentator is an individual with particular religious beliefs, which I respect, but I must say that it is not sensible to tell people not to use a product that is very effective in combating sexually transmitted diseases." Ms O'Malley said that in the UK a group of young students had launched a campaign called "just say know", with the word "know" rooted in the word "knowledge". "There is no point in keeping people in the dark about sexual activity. Statistics show how sexually active young people really are."
She added that in any other area of health, one was provided with the necessary information. "Why are people not presented with information on sexual health? Is it because of our traditions and prudishness regarding the subject? I hope we can overcome this and consider seriously the development of a national sexual health strategy."
Minister of State for Health Brian Lenihan said the department had supported sexual health at the strategic and executive levels across the sector for a number of years. At national level, policy had been formulated clearly in the report of the national Aids strategy committee, the national health promotion strategy and the strategy of the Crisis Pregnancy Agency.
