1108. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Health whether protests outside In-vitro fertilisation and surrogacy clinics fall within the protections for and definition of healthcare facilities, as defined under the Health (Termination of Pregnancy Services) (Safe Access Zones) Act 2024; and whether consideration is being given to such inclusion; and if she will make a statement on the matter, [64218/26]

The Health (Termination of Pregnancy Services) (Safe Access Zones) Act 2024 creates Safe Access Zones of 100 metres from an entrance or exit to a premises where obstetricians/gynaecologists and general practitioners provide services. The Zones also apply to hospitals that provide acute inpatient services within the meaning of section 51 of the Health Act 1970. Within these Zones, certain conduct aimed at, intentionally or recklessly, impeding access or influencing decisions in relation to availing of, or providing, termination of pregnancy services is prohibited.

The text of the Act overall is clearly aimed at dealing with the impeding of access, or the attempting to influence decisions related, to termination of pregnancy services specifically and solely. It would not be appropriate or practical to amend this bespoke piece of legislation to address possible issues related to the provision of other health services, including assisted human reproduction (AHR) treatment.

It is concerning if individuals are facing any obstructions or difficulties in accessing legally-available fertility or other healthcare services in the State. I have asked my officials to raise the matter with colleagues in the HSE’s National Women and Infants Health Programme, who have regular engagement with private fertility clinics in the context of the operation of the publicly-funded AHR treatment initiative.