Fine Gael will ensure that one of the most permissive surrogacy regimes anywhere will go into operation in Ireland as soon as they return to Government.

Critics say the practice exploits women and commodifies children.

Speaking at the launch of the party’s policy on children, Senator Mary Seery Kearney said, “in the first 100 days in Government, Fine Gael will ensure the commencement of the Assisted Human Reproduction Act. This will entitle families to go to the courts to get their much needed parental order. This is a commitment”.

In addition, the Senator said Fine Gael “will drive the establishment of the Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority, enabling all those future surrogacy journeys and also IVF funding”.

The Party has also included a commitment in its manifesto to “enact without delay supplementary legislation”.