The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa wants parliament to consider a legislation to guide the implementation and affordability of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) in order to solve as many infertility problems as possible in average homes.
“Mr. Speaker, it is time for Ghana to have it’s own debate, decide on where we belong and pass our own unique legislation based on our cultural values, philosophical underpinnings and ethos to regulate the phenomenon of surrogacy and other ARTs,” he said in a statement on the floor of parliament Tuesday.
One cycle of IVF-treatment and other forms of fertility treatments in the country costs several thousands of euros/dollars, according to the lawmaker saying the seeming lack of regulation in the fertility treatment industry makes it easy for patients to be exploited.
“Mr. Speaker, I wish to humbly suggest that the Health Ministry and the Attorney General’s Department begin vigorous engagements with sector players including:
fertility clinics, researchers, medical and health associations, support groups, lawyers et cetera, to develop the needed framework for an urgent and comprehensive legislation.
“This intervention is needed to mitigate anticipated crises that may arise with the increasing number of fertility clinics and clientele.
“We should also, Mr. Speaker, begin to sensitize our constituents on the benefits and challenges of Assisted Reproductive Technologies.
“Mr. Speaker, ARTs have no doubt brought amazing refuge to childless couples as they strive to “be fruitful and multiply” as God admonished in Genesis 1:28; and who no longer have to suffer from the psychological effects of societal pressure when there are options, however, my plea, respectfully is that we rise up to our responsibilities as leaders to ensure that ARTs are safe and truly beneficial to all parties and the larger society.
“Mr. Speaker, like adoption, which is quite well regulated, it is imperative that Assisted Reproductive Technologies such as IVF and Surrogacy be legalised and a framework established to support the phenomenon.”