Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Feb 2003

Vol. 561 No. 4

Written Answers. - Assisted Human Reproduction.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

384 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will consider the contents of correspondence (details supplied); if he is satisfied that the law is being upheld; his views on whether the Medical Council is a law unto itself; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4689/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

Assisted human reproduction, including in vitro fertilisation, raises sensitive and complex issues with legal and ethical implications. It is not currently subject to statutory control in this country. Medical practice is governed by guidelines issued by the Medical Council which state as follows:

In this rapidly evolving and complicated area the council reminds doctors of their obligations to preserve life and to promote health. The creation of new forms of life for experimental purposes or the deliberate and intentional destruction of human life already formed is professional misconduct.

In relation to IVF, the guidelines also provide as follows: "Any fertilised ovum must be used for normal implantation and must not be deliberately destroyed."

With a view to addressing concerns about the absence of statutory control in the area, and fol lowing a Government decision on the matter, I established the Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction in 2000 to prepare a report on the possible approaches to the regulation of all aspects of assisted human reproduction and the social, ethical and legal factors to be taken into account in determining public policy in the area. The commission, chaired by Professor Dervilla Donnelly, includes expertise from relevant backgrounds, notably science, medicine, law and social science. Its deliberations have been informed by an inter-disciplinary approach to its work involving highly specialised working groups. Additionally, in line with my instructions at the outset of the process, the commission has engaged in wide consultation with relevant bodies including the seeking of submissions from the public.

Given the difficult nature of the issues to be examined, it is not possible to be definitive about the length of time it will take the commission to complete its work, but I am satisfied that it is making significant progress and will continue to work as quickly as is possible. The publication of the commission's report will provide the basis for informed public debate before the finalisation of any policy proposals.