The Cabinet is to propose terms of reference for a Special Joint Oireachtas Committee to report with recommendations on commercial surrogacy, something banned by almost every European country because it exploits low-income women and commodifies children. The decision comes after pressure to recognise international commercial surrogacy in Ireland.
It will be given four months to complete its work.
The committee will be provided with an issues paper drafted by officials in the Departments of Justice, Health and Children, in consultation with relevant ministers and their officials, to assist the committee in its deliberations.
The recommendations of the committee will then be considered by the Minister for Health as the Assisted Human Reproduction Bill progresses through the legislative process.
It is expected that any necessary legislative provisions which arise out of the committee’s examination will be inserted into the Assisted Human Reproduction Bill at committee stage.
