Calls for regulations on stem cell research

THE failure to develop a proper regulatory system for stem cell research undermines the moral value of the human embryo.

This is according to the Irish Council for Bioethics (ICB), which yesterday produced an opinion paper on the ethical, scientific and legal issues concerning stem cell research.

The council said embryos created in laboratories do not have the same moral standing as those developing in the womb, but they still had significant value to society and so deserved respect.