Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 166: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the contents of a letter (details supplied) in relation to issues concerning the report of the commission on assisted human reproduction. [37560/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction was established in March 2000. Its terms of reference were to prepare a report on the possible approaches to the regulation of all aspects of assisted human reproduction and the social, ethical and legal factors to be taken into account in determining public policy in this area. The commission was comprised of persons with expert knowledge spanning the medical, scientific, social and legal domains. This expertise was a prerequisite to a precise examination of the issues concerned. In addition, the chair invited a number of additional experts with complementary expertise in specific areas to join work groups. These groups were established to explore particular aspects of assisted human reproduction, AHR. They included experts and academics from sociology, philosophy, ecumenism and theology. The commission was independent throughout in carrying out its work.

The commission has conducted an intensive and analytical examination of AHR issues and its conclusions derive from this wide research. Its report was prepared after 23 meetings. It also consulted widely and sought submissions from the public. The commission's report was published on 12 of May last and as I indicated at the time, the Government decided to refer the report to the Joint Committee on Health and Children. This will allow for further public and political consideration of the complex issues involved.