Green party prioritising women’s health.
The provision of targeted women’s healthcare services is an area that has long been overlooked by successive governments. This area was a priority for the Green Party when we negotiated the Programme for Government in 2020. Since then, this Government has allocated an extra €140 million towards improving women's health services.
This substantial investment has made it possible to make bring in a range of initiatives aimed at addressing various aspects of women's health. From the implementation of a free contraception scheme for women aged 17 to 31 to the establishment of publicly funded assisted human reproduction treatment accessible via six regional fertility hubs, we have taken real steps to meet the healthcare needs of women.
Under the Women's Health Action Plan, significant progress has been made in expanding access to specialist services, including the operation of 16 out of a planned 20 See-and-Treat Gynaecology Clinics. These clinics not only provide essential medical care but also foster a supportive environment for women seeking treatment. I am hopeful that the remaining four clinics will open later this year, further enhancing access to quality care.
The establishment of six specialist menopause clinics and two specialist endometriosis centres allow for the provision of dedicated care and support for individuals experiencing menopause and endometriosis. Through these changes, we work to ensure that every woman receives the assistance she needs to maintain her health and well-being. In addition to this, I have asked my own Department to commission research on the workplace experiences of employees facing menstrual and menopause symptoms. This initiative aims to inform government policy and provide guidance for employers on supporting their employees' health needs in the workplace.
While we acknowledge these achievements, we recognise that there is still much work to be done. However, the €140 million investment in women's health services represents a significant step towards building a more inclusive and responsive healthcare system that prioritizes the needs of women. We are committed to ongoing efforts to expand access to essential services and address emerging health challenges, ensuring that women receive the care they deserve.
Our investment in women's health services reflects our society's values and priorities. By prioritising women's health, we invest in the future of our nation, empowering every woman to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Importantly, our commitment does not end here; we recognize the need for continued investment in healthcare to ensure the well-being of all individuals in our society.