Import & Export of Embryos/Gametes

Hi All

The Advisory Committee for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ACART), is currently undertaking the first of a two step public consultation about the regulations covering Import & Export of Embryos & Gametes.

To read the background document you can go to:
http://www.acart.health.govt.nz/moh.nsf/pagescm/7796

New Zealand requirements for the use of gametes and embryos are often very different from requirements elsewhere, and this can have an impact where people want to import or export gametes and embryos. e.g. using an egg donor in the US and wanting to bring any frozen embryos back to NZ to use (which currently is not possible).

There are significant ethical and policy concerns to take into account when considering whether any New Zealand requirements should be more flexible in regard to import and export. ACART has issued a background paper that seeks views on the following matters: •If New Zealand’s regulatory framework was amended to facilitate import and export of gametes and embryos, where might change or flexibility be justified?
•On the other hand, are there areas where there should be no flexibility in New Zealand requirements?

It would be great to have as much consumer feedback as possible about this subject - particularly if people would like to see change to the current regulations.

Please take time to put in a submission if you have an opinion. Alternatively, there will be an informal consultation with the Chair of ACART on the evening of 4th June in Auckland. If you were interested in attending please let me know and I can forward more details.

Many thanks,
Nikki