THE SDLP’s Mark H Durkan has welcomed the resumption of fertility services and the move to provide an eligibility extension of one year for anyone currently on the waiting list.
The service was suspended in March due to the Coronavirus lockdown.
Said the Foyle MLA: “The expansion of IVF provision and access to improved fertility services is an issue I have consistently fought for and one which the SDLP ensured was included in the New Decade, New Approach deal.
“I am grateful that Health Minister Robin Swann has listened to concerns myself and others have raised regarding threatened access to these services as a result of disruption caused by the pandemic.
“The announcement of a one-year eligibility extension for anyone currently on the waiting list and extended opening hours, will provide a comfort of sorts for those awaiting treatment.
“This is a temporary move to ensure that women who would breach the upper age limit, can still avail of treatment.
“I will continue my efforts to push for three IVF cycles on the NHS, to ensure that those with fertility issues and seeking to become parents are afforded an opportunity to do so without being excluded due to financial limitations.”
