Don Lydon (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader for a debate on stem cell and embryo research. As I understand it, there is currently no legislation governing the area, although I believe that Senator Henry tried to introduce a Bill on it some time ago. It is an exciting area, which I understand shows great possibilities for the eradication of illness and disease. It is also frightening and has implications in the philosophical, psychological, sociological and moral domains. We can never stifle the search for scientific truth and in this Chamber we should be absolutely capable of debating it. We need not wait for any reports from commissions, councils or anywhere else. We should debate it as soon as possible. In that way, when we need to present legislation, we will at least be informed and able to do so.