Wombs For Hire , Has Surrogacy Gone Too Far? Episode 730

Niall asks listeners for their views on one of the most divisive moral and social issues facing Ireland today, surrogacy.

The debate reignited last week after an American commercial surrogacy company planned to hold an event in a Dublin hotel called “Babies and Bites”. The event was later cancelled following public backlash and questions surrounding the legality of promoting commercial surrogacy in Ireland.

At present, altruistic surrogacy is legal in Ireland, meaning a woman can carry a child for somebody else without payment. However, commercial surrogacy, where women are paid to carry babies for couples or individuals, including same sex couples and those unable to conceive naturally, remains illegal.

Supporters argue surrogacy can be an extraordinary gift that allows people who may never otherwise experience parenthood to finally have a family of their own. They say modern families come in many forms and that banning surrogacy denies loving people the opportunity to become parents.

Critics however say the entire industry raises serious ethical concerns. Some believe commercial surrogacy turns babies into commodities and exploits vulnerable women, particularly those in poorer countries who may feel pressured into carrying children for money.

The issue has sparked fierce debate across Ireland, with strong opinions on both sides. Should surrogacy be fully legalised and regulated here, or should Ireland resist what some see as the commercialisation of childbirth and parenthood?

Niall hears passionate and emotional opinions from callers as they ask the question, where should Ireland draw the line on surrogacy?