Mixed response to Health Minister's plan to extend free contraception scheme to 16-year-olds

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly made the point that a 16-year-old is considered an adult and can make medical decisions for themselves and, should they wish, can avail of abortion services. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

News that the Health Minister is seeking to extend the free contraception scheme to 16 year olds has been met with something of a mixed response.

Stephen Donnelly has confirmed that he is looking at extending the popular scheme, currently available to those aged 17 to 35, to a wider age range including those aged 16.