Sir, - I would like to comment on your editorial (July 15th) on putative legislation for human reproduction. As an embryologist currently working in Dublin, with ten years clinical experience gained in an IVF unit in London, I welcome the call for legislation in this complex area.
You commented on the fact that other medical areas are not specifically legislated for. However, this area of medicine is unique and although the technology is medical and scientific, the consequences affect society as a whole and the interests of the potential children must be paramount. Particularly with the availability of procedures such as embryo freezing and the use of donor gametes, we have to take into consideration ethical and legal implications.
These issues were part of the basis on which the UK set up their regulatory body the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), in 1990. It would be reasonable to learn from their experience yet at the same time there are many European and international models which, on the whole, are very instructive and could allow us to mould legislation to meet the requirements of our own diverse society.
This is the next essential step forward in this ever growing complicated area of medicine, so that the best possible treatment for couples can continue to be provided with the welfare of the child being of utmost importance. - Yours, etc.,
Athina Tsouros, Rathgar, Dublin 6.