Ms Fiona Duffy:

Yes, and the cost is huge, although I do not concern myself with the cost because that is a matter for the client. It is a big issue. One of the first steps that has to be taken is that the client must seek advice on the area in question. Often, the clinics provide advice. One of the requirements of the State when somebody is seeking a declaration of parentage here is that the surrogate mother receive independent legal advice, evidence of which has to be produced in court. It is probably important that intending parents get legal advice as well because often the lawyers in clinics, if the client does not seek a separate lawyer, might have a vested interest. It is essential, therefore, that the intending parents also get that advice, although that is an additional cost and layer.