Media Release

14 August 2007

Extra chance to have a say on assisted reproductive technology

With one in five New Zealand couples affected by infertility, many people are interested in assisted reproductive procedures.

The deadline for submissions on a new consultation paper -- Advice on Aspects of Assisted Reproductive Technology: A consultation paper on policy issues - has been extended to Friday, September 7 to let more people have a say on the issue.

Assisted reproductive technology is rapidly changing, says Advisory Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology (ACART) chair Professor Sylvia Rumball.

“The views of all New Zealanders are very important when it comes to decisions on what, if any, limits should be set to the use of assisted reproductive technology,” says Professor Rumball.

The paper discusses the possible limits for surrogacy, embryo donation, donation of eggs and sperm between family members, and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis with tissue typing.

Other areas on which public views are sought include the import and export of donated embryos and gametes.

Submissions close on 7 September 2007. To make a submission, go to www.acart.health.govt.nz or request further information from acart@moh.govt.nz.

A public oral submissions hearing will be held on 5 September 2007 from 2pm to 7pm at Turnbull House, 25 Bowen Street, Wellington.

ENDS

For more information and interviews with ACART’s Chair and spokesperson, Professor Sylvia Rumball, please contact:

Michael Flyger
Media Advisor
Ministry of Health
Ph 04 496 2265
Mobile 0274 346 878