Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am disappointed that the Minister will not accept amendment No. 15. I have been a foster parent over the years and I can tell him that sexual crimes against children are not exclusive to men; they also applies in the case of women. It is disturbing that he will not accept that, particularly in the context of someone who has been convicted of a crime against a child.

If the Minister is trying to maintain public trust and confidence in surrogacy services, adherence to strict regulations and standards that prioritise child protection and safety will be required. Implementing restrictions on individuals convicted of child sexual offences demonstrates a commitment to upholding principles of promoting transparency in surrogacy practices. Children born through surrogacy are among the most vulnerable. Prohibiting individuals convicted of sexual offences from participating in surrogacy helps protect these children from harm or exploitation; allowing individuals with a history of sexual abuse to participate in surrogacy increases the risk of abuse or harm to such children. This restriction serves as a preventative measure to reduce the likelihood of such risks and provide for the safety and well-being of the child.

Upholding ethical standards and legal regulations in surrogacy is essential to ensuring the integrity of the process and protecting the rights of all parties. That includes the child. Prohibiting individuals convicted of sexual offences aligns with these standards and reinforces whatever ethical principles are there. Surely there must be some ethical principles relating to surrogacy. Surrogacy should prioritise the best interests of the child and ensure a safe and nurturing environment for their upbringing. Excluding individuals with a history of child sexual offences from participating in surrogacy reflects a commitment to safeguarding child welfare and promoting a supportive and healthy family environment. It is a crucial safeguard to protect the interests and well-being of children born through surrogacy. By prioritising the child's safety and the legal and ethical standards, the restriction helps uphold the integrity of surrogacy arrangements and ensures a supportive and secure environment for the child's upbringing.I am disappointed the Minister would not accept this amendment, or that some safeguarding is not there, in that it would preclude people who may have been involved in and may have committed a sexual offence against a child from this legislation. To tell the truth, I am very disappointed.