Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank all the witnesses for their contributions. This issue definitely involves a steep learning curve for me. I will ask direct questions and I would appreciate answers that are as concise as possible.

The issues paper refers to appropriate safeguards. I am thinking about the appropriate safeguards in respect of one of the ethical concerns being raised, namely, commercialisation. How do those two things intersect? Is there an appropriate standard of safeguard that reduces the impact of the ethical issue of commercialisation? What I am asking is what the appropriate safeguards are. If appropriate safeguards are in place in respect of the surrogate mother, does that balance out any other concerns about commercialisation? That is my first question. I hope it is clear. It is hard to know to whom to direct it, whether the Department of Health or the Department of Justice. I am not sure.