TD calls for IVF to be made available on public health system

A SOUTHSIDE TD has called for IVF treatment to be made available on the public health system.

Deputy Catherine Byrne (FG) said there must be increased support for couples undergoing the fertility procedure.

“Couples undergoing IVF need support from the State,

? Deputy Byrne said.

“I have personal experience of friends going through IVF, so I know how difficult it can be.

“Not alone can it be a heart-breaking and frustrating experience, but it is incredibly exp­­ensive. Of course, it is so worthwhile when fertility treatment is successful, however, we should be doing something to better support people going through the experience.

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Deputy Byrne pointed out that Assisted Human Reproduction (AHR) is covered by the NHS in the UK.

“I don’t see why it cannot be made available on the public health system here,

? she stated.

“Prospective parents here can offset the cost of private AHR treatment against their income tax liability, and the cost of prescribed AHR medicines is an allowable expense under the Drugs Payment Scheme.

“However, the overall cost of IVF treatment can add up to thousands. Many couples need to try it more than once so it can result in huge financial strain.

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Deputy Byrne said she intended to raise the matter with Health Minister James Reilly at the next Oireachtas Health Committee meeting.

“In April 2005 the Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction published a report on how AHR might be regulated in Ireland,

? Deputy Byrne added.

“This was not acted upon by previous Governments. I would like to see legislation brought forward for the regulation of AHR in Ireland, and a move to publically fund IVF, which would at least ease the financial burden on couples going through fertility treatment.

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