Harre pushes school condoms plan

Condoms are already being given out in classrooms, but no one knows how many schools allow it, says a Government report.

Youth Affairs Minister Laila Harre wants condoms to be freely and easily available in schools to improve the sexual health of young people.

Her call came after she received the Ministry of Youth Affairs report, Increasing Consistent Condom Use By Young Men, which was released yesterday.

The report says young men would use condoms more readily if they do not have to pay or ask for them.

It says sexual health educators typically distribute condoms in class.

"However, it is not known how widespread this practice is."

Ms Harre said free, confidential access to condoms and better information could be a simple way to improve youngsters' health.

"If we can increase the number of young men taking responsibility for safe sex then, in turn, we will improve the sexual and reproductive health of young women."

The report says cost is a barrier for many young men. Pharmac fully subsidises condoms, but there are still doctors' fees and prescription charges.

The ministry found strong support among 15 to 20-year-old men for free, easier access to condoms.