Skip to main content
Normal View

Assisted Human Reproduction Legislation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2019

Tuesday, 8 October 2019

Questions (206)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

206. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Health the status of the assisted human reproduction Bill; his plans to bring the legislation before the Houses of the Oireachtas in 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40595/19]

View answer

Written answers

In October 2017, the Government approved the drafting of a bill on assisted human reproduction (AHR) and associated areas of research, based on the published General Scheme of the Assisted Human Reproduction Bill.

The Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health published the report of its review of the General Scheme on 11 July 2019, as part of the pre-legislative scrutiny process, which began in January 2018. The Committee makes 11 main recommendations, which include proposals both related to broad policy objectives and more technical amendments.

Given the comprehensive scope of the legislation and the ethical, legal and social issues which arise from AHR practices, it is anticipated that certain areas of the General Scheme will require further consideration and refinement during the ongoing process of drafting the bill in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General. The Joint Committee’s Report and its recommendations will be considered as part of this process.

The aim of the AHR legislation is to promote and ensure the health and safety of parents, others involved in the process (such as donors and surrogate mothers) and, most importantly, the children who will be born as a result of AHR. Consideration of the welfare and best interests of children born through AHR is a key principle underpinning the legislation.

Top
Share