Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Independent)
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656. To ask the Minister for Health if his plans to legislate for stem cell research here, as promised in the programme for Government, have been progressed; his views on whether the current lack of legislation puts Irish patients at unnecessary risk and expense; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27355/14]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Minister for Health is currently examining proposals to regulate assisted human reproduction and related matters including stem cell research.

In relation to any risks arising to patients, let me assure the Deputy that the handling, processing, storage, etc, of human tissues and cells, including gametes (eggs and sperm) and embryos, is currently regulated under the European Communities (Quality and Safety of Human Tissues and Cells) Regulations (Statutory Instrument No.158 of 2006) which came into law on 7 April, 2006. The Regulations apply to tissues establishments involved in the donation, procurement, testing, processing, preservation, storage and distribution of human tissues and cells intended for human applications. The Irish Medicines Board is the competent authority under the Regulations and is thus responsible for inspecting and authorising fertility clinics, which are tissue establishments under the Regulations, to ensure that they meet quality and safety standards.