A life-saving vaccine against cervical cancer will be rolled out across the country today.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) revealed the nationwide vaccination campaign will help protect more than 57,000 schoolgirls from developing cervical cancer as adults.
Dr Brenda Corcoran, of the HSE National Immunisation Office, said cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Ireland among women aged 15 to 44.
It is hoped the vaccine will eventually save around 60 lives every year.
"Around 250 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, with around 80 deaths. The HPV vaccine will prevent at least 70% of these cases," said Dr Corcoran.
The drug - Gardasil - is free of charge and is being offered to all girls attending the first and second year of second-level schools.
Dr Corcoran said Gardasil is a safe and fully tested vaccine which protects against the main cancer-causing strains of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is proven to cause cervical cancer.
"It is a common virus - about 80% of people will have a HPV infection during their lifetime," she continued.
"Even though it will take time for the impact of the vaccination programme to be seen, this vaccine will help protect the future health of this generation of young girls, and the generations to come."
The HSE said informed consent is a critical element of any vaccination campaign, adding that parents should receive information from verifiable, credible and unbiased sources.
Most of the vaccinations will be administered in schools by HSE immunisation teams, with some girls being invited to HSE clinics for their vaccine.
Parents or guardians will receive an information pack and consent form from the HSE, via the school, ahead of a child's vaccine.
Dr Corcoran added: "Gardasil will save lives and it is important that first and second year schoolgirls get vaccinated.
"Like Ireland, every one of the many countries implementing HPV vaccination programmes are doing so in the best interest of their citizens - to maximise health, prevent disease and prolong life.
"Cervical cancer is proven to be caused by HPV. Giving your daughter the HPV vaccine is safe, is very worthwhile, and will protect her now, for her future."