HIV remains a political issue
Speaking in advance of World AIDs Day (December 1st), Labour health spokesperson Duncan Smith has called on the Government to increase their effort to combat HIV and AIDs.
Deputy Smith said:
“World AIDs Day has been held on 1st December each year since 1988 and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died.
“HIV rates more than doubled in Ireland last year according to the HPSC. Cases rose from 400 to 874 by the end of week 51 in 2022, a 118% increase.
“More should be done by Government to address this crisis and devote greater resources to preventative measures.
“Earlier this month, HIV Ireland called for HIV to be a key priority in the development of Ireland’s new National Sexual Health Strategy. Labour is calling on Minister Donnelly and the HSE to see this adopted.
“This strategy must link clinical and community efforts to halt the transmission of HIV and to care for those with the disease. We also need to see a renewed focus on HIV testing for all.
“Science continues to make great progress and allows for hope. But until the day a cure is finally discovered, prevention remains our best chance to save lives.”