I am aware of an elderly relative who needs these pads. She has a medical card and the pads are made available for regular collection at a HSE distribution point. My understanding is that if the user holds a medical card these items will be supplied free of charge. If not they must be paid for but will come under the prescription scheme re limited monthly charge. Check this with your pharmacist!
Thanks for replies, there is no medical card. The non branded ones are pretty cheap so we will press on, hopefully as the issue is surgery related, it will improve/cease in time.