Changes to the Embryo Protection Act remove discrimination – MGRM

The Malta Gay Rights Movement (GRM) has reiterated its support for the proposed amendments to the Embryo Protection Act, saying they redress discriminatory provisions in relation to same-sex couples and also provide for access to the preservation of gametes for trans persons who choose to undergo gender confirmation surgeries.

The movement said that research amply demonstrated that the quality of parenting rather than the gender or sexual orientation of parents was what determined the developmental outcomes and life chances of children.

“It is ridiculous to contend that those who access IVF services should be subject to the same assessment undergone by prospective adoptive or foster parents given that no such hurdle exists for any other category of parents. The right to respect for one’s private and family life pertains to all in equal measure.”

MGRM said it also supports the opening up of IVF to single parents.

“Single parent families are part of the range of diverse family formations that form part of our society and single parent adoptions have been part of Malta’s public policy for many years. It is the support systems available to the parent that often determine the quality of outcomes for the child and these are not solely dependent on marital or relationship status.”

MGRM also backed regulated altruistic surrogacy.

It expressed solidarity with the Malta Infertility Network and all those prospective parents whose chances of conceiving a child will be enhanced with the new procedures, and with all those parents who have had children through IVF or assisted insemination.

“While MGRM is always in favour of discussion and debate, opposition of a majority over a minority is not a justifiable reason to delay the introduction of measures that address discriminatory provisions. It is also hypocritical to limit access to health services which are widely available to Maltese citizens in other countries but which only those with the necessary financial means can currently avail themselves of,” the movement said.

Source : Times of Malta