To ask the Minister of Health to detail any provision being made within the cervical screening programme for women who are unable to avail of regular screening.

The Public Health Agency has advised where an individual has particular needs relating to cervical screening that cannot be met within the GP practice, the GP has the ability to refer that patient to a Trust gynaecology service where additional support and alternative options may be considered. This is managed at an individual patient level, by the practice nurse or GP, and would apply to all intimate examinations, not just screening.

All women are offered cervical screening and colposcopy only after full informed consent has been obtained, and these women are treated with the utmost respect and sensitivity.

I would encourage all eligible women to accept the invitation to screening, when invited and for women who require extra support, to contact their GP practice or clinic before making an appointment to discuss their needs.