LGBT+ community 'remain deeply disappointed' by piecemeal handling of surrogacy law

Ranae von Meding (left), with her wife Audrey Rooney and their children Ava, Ali, and Arya. All three of their children were born through reciprocal IVF. Picture: Johanna King

It took two decades to pass legislation to regulate domestic and international surrogacy in this country. But although the landmark bill was signed into law by President Michael D Higgins on July 2, 2024, it still hasn't commenced — meaning surrogate families remain in legal limbo.

Before last year's election, then health minister Stephen Donnelly promised a commencement day of June 1, 2025, but that date came and went. So why the wait and, more importantly, what does it mean for families?