Bioethics council backs contentious stem-cell research

The Irish Council for Bioethics has given its qualified backing to the contentious practice of stem-cell research.

The council says research on stem cells taken from human embryos is justified in certain circumstances.

However, it opposes the creation of embryos specifically for research and says studies should only be undertaken on embryos that are left over after IVF treatment.

It is also calling for the establishment of an independent, State-funded authority to oversee embryo research in Ireland.

Embryonic stem cells are widely regarded as having the prospect to provide treatment for a range of degenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.