Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I congratulate my colleague, Senator Rónán Mullen, and his co-sponsors, Senators John Hanafin and Jim Walsh, on their courage in addressing this very difficult and sensitive issue. I listened to the debate with interest and support the views expressed on the need for regulation. From listening to the contributions, particularly of the Minister, I would like to put on record my support for his comments that the hallmark of stem cells is their ability to develop into many other cell types and that this fundamental property needs continued research and investigation if it is to be harnessed to great effect. I wholeheartedly support that view on the basis of the principle of the Bill, which is to regulate this type of research and investigation.

I also support Senator Liam Twomey in the area of IVF, to which he referred. There are many other sensitive, delicate areas of which, as Senator Twomey stated, professional, qualified Members such as himself and the Minister of State, Deputy Devins, would have a greater understanding, areas in that sphere which need a certain amount of regulation and where there is no regulation at present.

I support what has been said on this Bill proposed by Senator Mullen and co-sponsored by Senators Hanafin and Walsh.