Ireland's first ever national strategy for sexual health has been launched, which aims to reduce the rapid rise of sexually transmitted infections.
The number of STI notifications has risen from 3,361 in 1995 to 12,753 in 2013 - a rise of 279%.
The Health Minister Leo Varadkar launched the new strategy this morning.
Key measures include:
- The appointment of Dr Fiona Lyons as HSE National Clinical Lead for Sexual Health Services
- Ensure that everyone who works with young people including parents, teachers and youth workers has access to proper training and back-up resources
- Raise awareness of the risk of unprotected sex and the importance of early testing and treatment
- An Action Plan has also been published comprising 18 key targets to be met before the end of 2016
It aims to make sexual health services more available and affordable, and to improve education to prevent STIs.
The new strategy also includes a pilot programme to offer free rapid HIV testing based in the community.
The most recent data from the Healthy Ireland Survey found evidence of risky sexual behaviour, with 17% of those having sex with someone outside a steady relationship not using any form of contraception.
Some 54% of men who had sex with another man did not use a condom.
While in 2013, some 314 people were diagnosed with HIV.
Mr Varadkar has also confirmed that funding of €150,000 has been allocated to pilot Dublin's first-ever free rapid HIV testing service, as well as expanding existing services in Cork and Limerick.
In Dublin, the Gay & Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) will run a one year pilot offering a mix of on-site testing in workplaces, bars and other hubs, and a new testing centre.
The funding will also support similar services already operated by the Cork Sexual Health Centre and GOSHH in Limerick.
Tiernan Brady from GLEN says it aims to remove any barriers to getting tested.
Minister Varadkar says the strategy aims to make a difference within two years.
Dr Fiona Lyons, National Clinical Lead for Sexual Health Services, said: "This strategy gives us the opportunity to work together and build further on the great work already in progress towards realizing the vision that everyone in Ireland experiences positive sexual health and well-being".
