A marked rise in the number of people being diagnosed with HIV has prompted calls for new information campaigns and a nationwide introduction of free test kits.

While pleased that the issue of pornography and social networking was highlighted in The Irish Examiner (Oct 15 and 16), I was saddened by the reference to a young 17-year-old woman, still legally a child, as “Slane girl”.

THE youth organisation Spunout caused controversy when its website suggested threesomes for teens. Parents and politicians demanded to know why public money was used to promote kinky sex among teens.

A third of people living with HIV are unaware they carry the infection, new research has revealed.

Almost a third of people living with HIV are unaware they carry the infection, new research has revealed.

THE burden of keeping the secret of living with HIV means people are increasingly experiencing suicidal thoughts, depression and low self-esteem issues, experts have said.

MEET the musicians who are going to new heights to lift the nations’ spirit on budget day.

YOUR columnist Fergus Finlay (March 25) writes about the “two frightened little girls”, Naomi and Jemima Izevbekhai, who are scheduled to be deported by the State and therefore live with the threat of genital mutilation.

THE Sexual Health Centre welcomes the reduction of VAT on condoms, removing them from the category of “luxury item”.

AN INNOVATIVE sex education programme currently offered to schools is in danger because of a lack of government funding.

INTERNATIONAL experts in sexual health are hoping to blow the lid on Ireland’s culture of denial around sex next month.

WE received sex education when I was in secondary school.

MICHAEL D HIGGINS points out that it is important to vote no in the referendum.

The 16-year-old passenger in a stolen sports car that killed two gardai has been sentenced to four years detention which is to start in March 2004 after his current two year term ends.

The 16-year-old passenger in a stolen sports car that killed two gardai last April wouldn't have been at liberty at the time had there been a residential place available for him.