Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Cathal Crowe. I believe Deputy Cullinane is on his way; he is doing an interview and said he would be a few minutes late.

The committee has been convened to continue its consideration of the Committee Stage of Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Bill 2022. Committee Stage consideration got off to a satisfactory start when we first discussed this on 24 January. I thank the Minister for Health for providing briefing documentation in the meantime as requested by the committee at that meeting. Today we will continue from section 35 and make as much progress as possible. However, given the size of the Bill and the number of amendments, the committee may need to continue its consideration at a further meeting.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against either a person outside the Houses or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I also remind members that they are only allowed to participate in this meeting if they are physically located on the Leinster House complex. In this regard I ask all members, prior to making their contribution to the meeting, to confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus. I also remind members that should a division be called, members must physically come to the committee room to vote.

I welcome the Minister for Health, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, to our meeting this morning. A total of 256 amendments were tabled, of which 79 were considered at our first meeting and a grouping list has been provided to members. I also welcome the Minister's officials, whom, I understand, the Minister may invite to clarify specific issues which may arise. Would to the Minister like to start?