Women should be able to get the Pill free of charge from their local chemist, according to the Irish Pharmacy Union in order to reduce the number of abortions, despite the lack of evidence that it has this effect.
At present, women need a prescription from a family planning clinic or doctor to be able to buy the contraceptive pill, which costs between €5 and €14.50 per pack. They also have to pay €45 for a appointment every six months to renew their prescription. The initial consultation for the Pill is €60, according to the Irish Family Planning Association. Women who have a medical card can access free contraception.
Access to free contraception for all women was recommended by the Oireachtas Committee on the Eighth Amendment in 2017.
