Ms Amie O'Connor:

I would like to make a point regarding stem cells. We are between seven and ten years behind on cochlear implants, so I cannot see stem cell research having an impact. It is only research currently, but if it produces results and comes into play, I do not see Ireland being the first to take it up. I believe our children will be well into their 50s before the research produces results that can be taken up. Therefore, I do not see stem cell research as relevant to our children. In years to come, if it is the best option and has been fully researched and proven, that is a route deaf children could take. At the moment, and for the foreseeable future, cochlear implants are the best option available to our children.