Louth senator welcomes progression of Assisted Human Reproduction Bill 

Fianna Fáil Senator in Louth and Seanad Spokesperson on Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, Erin McGreehan, has welcomed Cabinet approval of Committee Stage Amendments to the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Bill 2022.

The approval includes new provisions in respect of the regulation of international surrogacy agreements and the recognition of certain past surrogacy arrangements. 

It is intended that the finalised approved legislative provisions relating to international surrogacy will be included in the Bill at the next stage, Committee Stage, as well as measures to allow the possibility for retrospective recognition of parentage in respect of domestic and international surrogacy arrangements. 

Senator McGreehan said: “The progression of the Assisted Human Reproduction Bill is hugely welcome.

"I have worked very closely on the legislation, having worked on the Joint Oireachtas Committee on International Surrogacy.

"It is complex and far-reaching and will, for the first time, encompass regulation on a wide range of areas related to assisted human reproduction. 

“The Bill is the first Bill globally that we are aware of that will regulate for domestic and international surrogacy.

"It will set out a process for future surrogacy both here In Ireland and internationally and, critically, provide a pathway for retrospective parenthood.

"It is so important for these children and these parents that have been advocating for this and looking for this for a very long time."

“This is a good day for children and families and the priority now must be on progressing this legislation as early as possible in the new year as a priority.”