Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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To ask the Minister for Health if he will address the issue of infertility treatment in Ireland from the point of view of the lack of available clinics for medical card holders and the inadequate private health insurance cover for many of the treatments, with particular reference to considering a model as operated under the NHS, where couples get a minimum of one free treatment and can apply for up to three treatments, or that greater provision is delivered through health insurance reform [16714/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Assisted Human Reproduction treatment (AHR) is not provided or funded by the public health system; such treatment is available from clinics that operate privately. Patients who access these services 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 authorised by the High Tech Liaison Officers. The cost of the medicines is reflected in the PCRS Statistical Analysis of Claims and Payments under High Tech Drugs. Patients may then use their valid established eligibility for GMS or Drug Payment Scheme, as appropriate, to access the medicines.

I am conscious of the financial burden that fertility services can place on the couples concerned; however, this matter has to be considered in the context of the difficult economic situation that prevails and the other compelling funding demands across a full range of health issues.