Senator Ivana Bacik and Senator David Norris Confirm Support for Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Press Release

Independent Senators David Norris and Ivana Bacik today held a well-attended press conference at 11.00am on Thursday 16th April 2009 in the Earl of Kildare Hotel, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

The purpose of this press conference was to confirm their support for the principle that embryonic stem cell research should be permitted, subject to legislation and regulations which would protect clinicians, researchers, donors, patients and the embryo and the economy.

The two Independent Senators have issued a joint statement saying that while they welcome recent advances in the experimental use of adult stem cells they also agree with the overwhelming consensus among the medical and scientific community which is that embryonic stem cell research offers immense potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders in particular, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Ireland needs legislation to regulate the carrying out of this research, in line with the recommendations of the Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction in 2005 and the Irish Council for Bioethics in 2008. Both expert bodies recommended a robust legal framework within which embryonic stem cell research would be permitted. They also feel strongly that vulnerable people should be protected from exploitation by the promotion of unrealistic “cures”.

Also in attendance to support the Senators' press conference were Professor Orla Hardiman, Consultant Neurologist from Trinity College Dublin and Dr. Gavin Davey of the Neuroscience Institute at Trinity College Dublin.