"Today marks another significant milestone in the passage of this important and long-awaited Bill. We are dealing with extremely complex issues and the work involved extensive consultation and consideration of a whole range of issues.

"I would like to acknowledge the vast amount of work that has been done to get us here, especially the engagement by a range of stakeholders over many years, and especially as we moved through Committee stage.

"I would like to thank Dail colleagues and all those who have contributed to shaping this legislation as well as officials in my department. I would also like to acknowledge Ministers Helen McEntee and Roderic O’Gorman and officials in the departments, as well as the Attorney General and his officials.

"The issues covered by this Bill have been the subject of much discussion and examination, including during Committee Stage and indeed by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on International Surrogacy.

"This complex and far-reaching legislation encompasses, for the first time, the regulation of a wide range of practices undertaken in this jurisdiction, including:

"Another key feature of the Bill in this regard is to allow the establishment of an independent regulatory authority for AHR, the Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority (AHRRA).

"Most importantly this Bill will make a real difference to the lives of so many families. I have listened to families and experts and I believe that the Bill and the amendments I introduced address many of the key issues raised. Some of the issues that arose during Committee Stage require further consideration. In this regard, I propose to bring forward an amending Bill in the Autumn."