Progressive Democrats TD Fiona O'Malley has called for the removal of Vat on condoms in the forthcoming Budget.
Ms O'Malley called for the charge to be either removed or reduced in response to a survey by the Crisis Pregnancy Agency (CPA) that found an inconsistent use of condoms by young people and a reliance on the media and friends, rather than schools, for sex education.
"More effective sex education programmes must be introduced in our schools and at an earlier age. There must also be a greater commitment across the board to implementing these programmes and ensuring they are effective," the TD said.
"We cannot afford to brush this problem under the carpet as we have done with similar problems in the past. We need greater openness when it comes to discussing matters of sexual health and identity. Neither should the burden be placed solely on teachers - parents also have an important role to play."
"The simple truth is that teenagers are having sex - what we need to do is reduce the numbers who are having unprotected sex."
Ms O'Malley said what was needed was increased education and awareness campaigns, wider availability of condoms, especially in rural areas, and an overall reduction in the price of the contraceptives.
She said the CPA survey, details of which were published in today's Irish Times, has highlighted cost as deterring some young people from using condoms.
"If a relatively simple measure like removing the Vat on condoms would increase their usage, then I would urge the Minister for Finance to give it serious consideration."
Ms O'Malley is a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children and a member of the Dáil All-Party Group concerned with issues of sexual and reproductive health.