Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
743. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Health to outline the work undertaken by her Department to improve the availability of free period products; the relevant initiatives/funding available to local authorities to improve availability locally; the initiatives/funding that is available to local community groups, sporting groups and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47270/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraGovernment action in recent years has been guided by clear evidence indicating that period poverty affects a considerable number of women, particularly among younger age groups and those living in areas of greatest need. In response, my Department chaired the Sub Committee on Period Poverty under the National Strategy for Women and Girls, which culminated in the publication of the Period Poverty in Ireland Discussion Paper in 2021.
Based on commitments in the Programme for Government and on recommendations outlined in the Period Poverty in Ireland Discussion Paper, an Inter-Departmental Period Dignity Implementation group chaired by my Department was established in 2021 to lead on period dignity mitigation. The Group has been advised by DPENDR that the funding of period dignity measures in each sector is a matter for the relevant Government Departments.
Additionally, support has been extended to NGOs and community partners working with those most at risk of poverty, including the Traveller and Roma communities, individuals experiencing homelessness, and persons living with addiction. Local authorities have also been assisted in providing period dignity products in libraries, community centres, and other public facilities. A national procurement framework has been established to ensure that public bodies can source a wide range of sustainable and traditional products efficiently. Funding for these initiatives has increased annually and has been allocated again for 2026.
Since 2022, my Department has provided annual funding to enhance access to free period products throughout public buildings and publicly funded services. This year, to date, my Department has allocated €614,000 in Period Dignity funding to 21 Local Authorities and 15 Non-Governmental Organisations.
In line with the Programme for Government 2025, my Department is committed to further strengthening period dignity policy through new measures designed to ensure universal access to period products. The policy will continue to build on existing initiatives by expanding provision across all publicly funded institutions, prioritising schools, colleges, and healthcare settings. It also seeks to implement targeted outreach for vulnerable groups, increase public awareness, and promote sustainability in product choice.
Ongoing consultation with stakeholders and community partners will inform the delivery and impact of these enhanced measures, ensuring that the policy is responsive to the evolving needs of women and girls across Ireland.
