Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is not possible to give a definite timeline for the completion of the AHR Bill and its subsequent passage through the Houses of the Oireachtas. However, as the Senator said, it is on the priority list for drafting and publication during the current term. I understand intensive work on the Bill is being undertaken by officials to finalise the legislation before the end of this year.

Regarding the current supports for those undertaking the AHR treatment, a defined list of fertility medicines needed for such treatment is covered under the hi-tech arrangement administered by the HSE. I am aware such schemes can have a material impact on the total cost of such treatments for individuals who avail of them.

The Senator's proposal makes perfect and utter sense and in the long term, such an early intervention would probably be a cost efficient method. That is exactly what I will bring back to the Minister, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, in respect of the issue the Senator raised. While we acknowledge work is being done perhaps other earlier interventions should be included when blood samples are being taken because in the long term they would have a cost benefit. Also, most importantly, it would give control back to the individual.