Objections to stem cell research funding is withdrawn

IRELAND withdrew its objections to the EU funding controversial stem cell research yesterday despite protests by pro-life organisations.

The research uses cells from spare embryos created through in-vitro fertilisation, but can only be carried out in countries where it is legal.

Ireland has no legislation governing such research, though guidelines are expected to be issued shortly by the Bio-Ethics Medical Council and the Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction.