Doubts over universal access to sanitary items scheme

'Escalated costs' if government undertook project

The Health Minister says Island-wide provision of free sanitary products would not be practical.

It comes after the British Medical Association passed a motion last week, in which it will look to lobby Westminster for universal access.

UK charity FareShare, which are currently distributing sanitary items to women in low income areas of Scotland, received a £500,000 grant in what is being credited as the first government-sponsored scheme of its kind.

Asked if the Island could adopt a similar project, David Ashford said a roll-out of free provision would cost £1.1 million every year, based on the Scottish funding model: