Couples experiencing secondary infertility eligible for free fertility treatment
From Monday, couples who already have a child but meet all other access criteria can access publicly funded assisted human reproduction treatment.
This includes one full cycle of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill announced updated access criteria, saying: 'Since we introduced publicly funded assisted human reproduction (AHR) treatment in September 2023, close to 2,500 couples have been referred by reproductive specialist consultants, and many have achieved their dream of starting a family.
Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Niall Carson/PA)
'Fertility issues can be devastating, and I am conscious that secondary infertility is a significant issue, with many people facing huge financial and emotional difficulties in their attempts to have a second child.
'I have listened to the requests from parents in this difficult situation, and I am pleased that we are now in a position to make this potentially life-changing treatment available to more people.
'With effect from June 30 2025, the current access criteria will be extended to include couples with one existing child in their relationship.'
She said work is under way to progress the legislation and establish a regulatory authority.
The Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Act 2024 was signed into law by in July last year.
A supplementary Bill to deal with issues such as parentage and citizenship in surrogacy arrangements as well as donor-assisted conception is also being worked on.
Ms MacNeill added: 'We are making significant progress in relation to AHR legislation, and formal drafting of the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) (Amendment) Bill is nearing completion.
'Officials at my department are working closely with officials at the Department of Justice and the Department of Children to finalise the Bill. Intensive work is under way to publish this legislation as soon as is practical.
'One critical piece in the AHR jigsaw is the establishment of a regulatory authority. Good progress has been made in relation to the establishment of the Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority.'
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