Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has said she is “absolutely delighted” after the Department of Health confirmed same-sex couples will be able to access fertility treatment at the Regional Fertility Clinic.
The Department said couples would be able to able to receive the fertility treatment, including IVF, through the NHS clinic at the Belfast facility.
“I am absolutely delighted by this news and the further step towards equality it means for same-sex couples,” said Ms Armstrong.
“My thoughts are with all those who are going through fertility treatment and now all those who will soon be joining them. I will seek clarification from the Department on further details, including the criteria for proving infertility, but my thanks go to them for making this change.
“Congratulations go to everyone who made this possible – the campaign for fair access to fertility treatment has been a long one. I speak from experience when I say IVF and other treatments are no easy thing to go through, but now the wonderful staff at the Regional Fertility Clinic will be able to help all couples in Northern Ireland who want to go through that journey.”