Government approval was granted recently for the drafting of a Bill on assisted human reproduction. This comprehensive and far-reaching legislation encompasses the regulation for the first time in Ireland of a variety of practices, including domestic surrogacy. The publication of the Bill has been highlighted as a priority and the programme for Government commits to its enactment. Provisions outlined within the general scheme will ensure that assisted human reproduction practices are standardised and will have the necessary oversight. The Bill will promote the health and safety of parents, donors, surrogates and, most importantly, children. I would welcome an update on the status of the Bill.

I thank the Deputy. An extensive amount of work has been done on this issue by my Department with the Departments of Health and Justice. The line Ministers have met on three occasions in regard to this specific legislation and how to advance the issue. The special rapporteur for child protection, Professor Conor O'Mahony, provided a detailed report on options in regard to providing full legal provisions here. The Attorney General has reviewed that report and has met with the three line Ministers. The matter was discussed at Cabinet prior to the summer recess. The Departments of Health and Justice will be bringing forth proposals in the near future on foot of the report.