Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach. First, I thank all the witnesses today in what certainly have been very informative, engaging and personal contributions from many of those in attendance. For those who see surrogacy as their only option in creating a family, this is an area of great importance which I fully support.

Last year I was exposed to the whole international surrogacy issue when a couple within my constituency were looking for support to access an emergency travel certificate from the Department of Foreign Affairs, with the whole process around DNA testing which had to be done before the certificate was issued, combined then with the legal documentation. That took six to seven weeks where both parents were abroad with their family at home. That created significant anxiety and uncertainty about bringing that newborn child back into Ireland and to a loving home. The emotional strain which that caused this family, in what should have been a joyous occasion, was something that stood with me. That happened last year and I am glad we have our invited guests here before the committee to continue the discussion on this topic.

On the proceedings for a declaration of parentage, can I hear a personal account or more information as to what that actually consists of? As I do more research in this area, I receive a real understanding of the complexity and process in respect of what needs to be overhauled. Professor O’Mahony spoke about different frameworks but I am sure these frameworks expand into the Departments of Justice, Health, Foreign Affairs, and Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. What would our witnesses like to see, or are the immediate short- or long-term legislative changes that are needed as we look towards furthering or strengthening our legislation in this area, which at present creates a very significant vacuum for many families? What are the expectations they have in this regard?

I compliment my colleague, Senator Seery Kearney, on her work to date within our party as she has been to the fore on this topic. I would like to gain an understanding on this from our witnesses' point of view.