13/10/2003

New fertility service plans unveiled

Health Minister Angela Smith has published a consultation document on the future of fertility services in Northern Ireland.

Launching the consultation paper ‘From People to Parents’, Angela Smith said that while the government was committed to publicly-funded fertility services in the province, there were a number of difficult issues to be addressed.

Indicating that the consultation process will end on 30 January 2004, the Minister said: “This is an opportunity for the public to help shape the future development of fertility services. I hope many people, including those who have experienced infertility, will respond with comments and suggestions.”

Thanking those who had contributed to the development of the document, the Minister said: “In developing the paper, my department has worked with commissioners, providers and users of fertility services, to discuss issues and concerns. This has proved highly valuable and I would like to thank all those who have contributed to this process.”

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