The program initially included only women under the age of 25, but in January 2023, eligibility was extended to women aged 26 and older.
Also included in this expansion is the morning-after pill.
The director of the Irish National Women's Council, Orla O'Connor, praised the development.
“The National Women’s Council is really welcoming this announcement. It’s really welcome that the Government are really continuing with their commitment in terms of rolling out the availability of free contraception, so now it will be available for all 17-30 year olds."
“All of the contraception, in terms of it now is free, and that’s really important. It can be dispensed at a local pharmacy of their choice, for all the contraception items that are there. This consultations are part of what is freely available.
“Also, the scheme includes which I think is important is emergency contraception, which is free of charge under the scheme.”
Mr Donnelly also mentioned the implementation of a medical card expansion.
“We’re talking today about an expansion of GP cards to half a million men, women and children. We have expanded free contraception, that will include women up to and of the age of 30.”
