SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has welcomed that the new power-sharing Executive will expand IVF provision to three funded cycles.
Said the Foyle MLA: “The expansion of IVF provision has been a key priority for the SDLP, a recent manifesto commitment and one which our negotiators continued to stress as part of the talks.”
“This will make a tangible difference in the lives of families across the North, 1 in 7 of whom have difficulty conceiving children.
“Many have had a huge financial cost of trying to access IVF privately and this cost has ruled many families out of seeking to become parents.
“Given NICE recommended this expansion some time ago, it was a source of frustration and regret to families that the lack of Executive prevented this change from happening any sooner.”
He added: “I warmly welcome that expansion of IVF provision is included in the New Decade, New Approach deal.
“I will be engaging with the incoming Health Minister (Robin Swann) to ensure it is delivered in a timely fashion.”
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