TDs at odds over merits of Spunout's threesomes web page

Opinion seems to be divided within Fine Gael as to whether it is appropriate for the HSE to fund a teenage website which hosts information about threesomes.

Mayo TD Michelle Mulherin said the page on SpunOut.ie which addresses the pros and cons of sexual relationships involving three people is "incredibly regressive".

She said she would raise the issue with the Health Minister this week.

SpunOut has defended the advice, saying the HSE's own research has shown that detailed sexual education leads to young people waiting longer to have sex for the first time.

In a statement on the webiste entitled 'Arm young people with facts, not fear', SpunOut said: "SpunOut.ie believes in the ability of young people to make the right decision for themselves once they have access to quality and reliable information, such as the information provided by our website."

Deputy Mulherin's party colleague Simon Harris said the page was a responsible resource.

"I'm not saying this should be actively promoted," he said, "but this is a balanced piece of information that tells people the pros and cons and it's up to (people themselves) to make their decision."