Assisted human reproduction Bill
Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked when the general scheme for assisted human reproduction legislation would be published. The Taoiseach said the heads were being developed, much work had been done, and he would check the current position for her.
I want to ask the Taoiseach about the assisted human reproduction Bill. I want to know when the general scheme of legislative provisions dealing with assisted human reproduction will be published. I have asked quite a number of parliamentary questions about this and the Minister has advised that officials in the Department were drafting the general scheme of legislative provisions. Unfortunately, it is not down for publication this term. I am aware that the HRB was engaged to conduct a comprehensive review of international public funding models but I am also aware that this was due to be completed by 2016. Is it the delay in this research that is delaying the legislation? There are large numbers of couples who are desperate to see this legislation published and progressed as soon as possible.
Comment on this
This is a sensitive matter. The heads are being developed and quite a deal of work has been done on them. I cannot answer the question that the Deputy asked about whether it is being delayed because of that information or research she is talking about. I will find out for the Deputy and will advise her exactly as to the current state of play in so far as the heads being developed and coming to Cabinet for approval is concerned.