The Minister for Health has launched a public consultation to look at the issue of access to contraception.

According to Minister Simon Harris, removing barriers to contraception is a key priority for him.

In April of this year, he established a working group to look at the policies, regulations and legislative issues relating to enhanced access to contraception. This followed the recommendation of the Joint Committee on the Eighth Amendment.

"The working group has been underway in my department since April and has done significant preparatory work. However, it is important we hear from the public and stakeholders and allow them to have their say on this issue.

"I would encourage all those with an interest to engage with the department's consultation before it concludes. It is our ambition to have the working group's report concluded by September," the Minister said.

The public consultation will remain open until midnight on Monday, August 5. Anyone wishing to make a submission can do so here.