Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
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Question 19: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients currently receiving IVF treatment through the Health Service Executive; the average cost involved per patient; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34698/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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IVF treatment is not provided or funded by the public health system. Patients who access IVF treatment privately may claim tax relief on the costs involved under the tax relief for medical expenses scheme. In addition, a defined list of fertility medicines needed for fertility treatment is covered under the High Tech Scheme administered by the Health Service Executive. Medicines covered by the High Tech Scheme must be prescribed by a consultant/specialist and approved by HSE 'High Tech Liaison Officers'. The cost of the medicines is then covered, as appropriate, under the Medical Card or Drug Payment Scheme. I am conscious of the financial burden that IVF treatment can place on the couples concerned and I have asked my officials to consider policy options in this regard as part of the process of developing an appropriate regulatory framework for this area.