In Budget 2025, Mr. Donnelly revealed plans for a publicly supported HRT program and allotted €20 million for it.

Based on current monthly payments, women might save, on average, €360 to €840 annually.

Under the proposed program, the State will cover the cost of HRT medications when a woman's healthcare provider prescribes them and they are deemed clinically acceptable for her.

Free HRT may still be offered administratively until the legislation is passed if it is not passed before January.

The annual Health Insurance Bill is scheduled to pass the Oireachtas in the upcoming weeks, and the legislation is meant to be passed through a Committee Stage Amendment.

Budget 2025 also featured plans for ongoing support of women's health initiatives, such as expanded free access to IVF and hormone replacement therapy.