SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan said there must be wider access to IVF treatment on the NHS, noting that 1 in 7 people across the North experience difficulty with having children.
Said The Foyle MLA: “The SDLP recognise that the journey of fertility is often fraught with difficulties but is an extremely important one for many people.
“This is why we are the only party to make reference to the vital need for increased IVF support in our manifesto.
“We want to see a wider access to IVF treatment on the NHS with an increase in entitlement to three IVF cycles, as is the case in Scotland.
“Furthermore, people here need supported and educated on the process, by being informed men and women will be better equipped to navigate this issue and be comforted in the knowledge that they are not alone.
“Infertility support services are essential to ensure people are assisted on every step of their journey.
“This includes promoting the generally unheard voices of men in this campaign as well as fostering supportive work environments for those undergoing treatment.
“The SDLP have consistently raised this issue both at Westminster and Stormont over the years, in fact I had proposed a motion prior to the collapse of the Assembly, in relation to securing multiple cycles of IVF on the NHS.
“Granted this is only one step of many required, alongside increased funding to tackle the stresses, both physical and mental which are part and parcel of this challenging process.
“Decisive action on this crucial matter demands a voice fighting your cause, to do that we need representation where it matters, whether that’s Westminster or Stormont.
“Without it we cannot progress legislation on these crucial matters,” added Mr Durkan.
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