Dana seeks EU debate on stem cell research

Independent MEP Rosemary ‘Dana’ Scallon has called on the Tánaiste to allow a full debate on embryonic stem cell research at a meeting of the European Council of Ministers next month.

Mary Harney is due to chair the meeting.

Ms Scallon claimed yesterday that the European Commission was preparing to press ahead with a plan to fund such research with public money.

She said such funding should not be provided until European ministers had an opportunity to fully debate the matter.