The prime minister indicated today that a review of the IVF law should include a discussion over whether the service should be extended to gay couples.

He was speaking at the launch of the LGBTIQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning) Action Plan 2015-2017.

Dr Muscat said legislation such as the general identity and civil partnerships had been a success, but there were gaps in other areas which also needed to be addressed.

Among them was the IVF law. "There needs to be a clear discussion of where we want to go," he said.

The IVF law is currently restricted to heterosexual couples in a stable relationship.

Dr Muscat said that the results of an analysis of the IVF law and services was due in a few months, and then one should discuss a review of the sector.

The action plan calls for, among other things, a review of the constitutionality of the provisions of the Embryo Protection Act (IVF legislation) that de facto excludes lesbians from the ability to receive treatment.

Among other provisions, the Action Plan calls on the government to establish LGBTIQ rights as a priority area for the 2017 EU presidency and to advocate a LGBTIQ roadmap with the European Commission.

It calls for a public campaign aimed a increasing acceptance of LGBTIQ people; an awareness campaign on HIV/AIDS among LGBTIQ communities and a study for a better understanding of older gay men and lesbian women in Malta.