Gay Health Network calls on Irish government to improve gender-affirming care services

“We believe that all young people, regardless of gender identity, deserve access to healthcare that prioritises both their physical and mental well-being.”

Ireland . Written by Alice Linehan.

This article is about the GHN calling on the Irish government to approving gender-affirming care services. The image shows a trans flag being carried at a protest.
Image: DCStockPhotography via Shutterstock

The Gay Health Network (GHN) has called on the Irish government to improve gender-affirming care services in the country. In a letter written to Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly on September 6, the group outlined the problems with the current system and made recommendations for how Ireland should progress.

“Ireland consistently ranks among the worst in Europe for access to gender-affirming care, creating a substantial barrier to the health and well-being of transgender and non-binary people. We acknowledge the urgent need to improve access to appropriate healthcare for those experiencing gender dysphoria,” the letter reads.

It goes on to outline the most pressing issues with the current service provisions, particularly the long waiting lists, limited access for youth and the so-called ‘Gatekeeping Model’, “where access to care is contingent on diagnoses and evaluations.”

The GHN also expresses concerns over the Cass Review, which is being used to inform trans healthcare services in the UK. It states that the report “has fundamental flaws”, namely: Substandard and inconsistent use of evidence; Non-evidenced claims; Unethical recommendations; Overt prejudice; Pathologisation; and Intentional exclusion of service users and trans healthcare experts from the review process. Therefore, the group states that it “should not be used to shape transgender care services in Ireland.”

 

Instead, the GHN points to the examples of Malta, Australia and New Zealand, “which prioritise psychological support, respect for bodily autonomy, individual care, and ongoing monitoring and support,” as exemplary standards. The group additionally urges the Irish government to consider models of gender-affirming care that are accessible, comprehensive, respectful, and practice informed consent.

“GHN stands ready to collaborate with the Department of Health and our community partners to help develop a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to gender services that prioritises the well-being of Irish youth and transgender people,” the organisation says, also requesting a meeting with the Department to discuss the recommendations further.

“We believe that all young people, regardless of gender identity, deserve access to healthcare that prioritises both their physical and mental well-being,” the letter concludes.

© 2024 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.

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