Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator. As I said, there are potentially highly sensitive and complex factors which arise here and these would need to be fully teased out, resolved and a firm decision agreed upon before it is decided whether, notwithstanding what is permitted in the relevant legislation, the State should fund this very distinct form of AHR treatment. However, I want to reassure the Senator that the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, is focused, through the full implementation of the model of care for fertility, on ensuring that patients receive care at the appropriate level of clinical intervention and then those requiring, and eligible for, advanced AHR treatment such as IVF will be able to access same through the public health system. The Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, is eager to see how we can most effectively grow the scheme further, in line with the programme for Government commitment, whether through broadening certain criteria or increasing the range of services available. The Minister hopes to be in a position to announce a clear plan of action in this regard in the coming weeks.