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Medical Research Regulation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 June 2014

Tuesday, 24 June 2014

Questions (519)

Billy Timmins

Question:

519. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health the status of stem cell research (details supplied) as agreed in the current programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27545/14]

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Written answers

In relation to your query re a legislative framework for Assisted Human Reproduction (AHR), I am pleased to inform you that the Minister for Health is examining proposals to regulate AHR and related matters including stem cell research. He will make a decision on these matters in due course in the context of on-going legislative priorities.

In relation to the funding of stem cell research, Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) has not approved any funding for human embryonic stem cell research. SFI always seeks to ensure that all research undertaken with its support at Irish research institutions conforms with the ethical and legal norms currently operating in Ireland. In 2010 SFI sought guidance on the approach to take regarding funding of human embryonic stem cell research. Following consultation with the Department of Health and Children, the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation issued a policy directive to SFI under the Industrial Development (Science Foundation Ireland) Act 2003 in September 2010 that SFI should not approve public funding for human embryonic stem cell research in the absence of legislation that specifically provides for the conduct of such research.

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