The IVF Bill reminds me of a famous fable about the old man and his son who brought his donkey to the town to sell but in trying to satisfy all the passersby, lost the donkey when it fell into the river.

The Bill tries to satisfy the ecclesiastical authorities, the extreme factions, those who are not fully conversant with the inherent problems, the unfortunate couples who cannot afford to seek treatment abroad, certain fanatical groups, etc. At the same time, the government seems to have let logic and practicality go overboard.

As in other instances, a modern and sensible law will not oblige anyone to follow it to the letter. There should be ample leeway.

Those with puritanical tendencies would be free not to resort to IVF or to control its use. Others, desperate to have children even if only to those who unfairly pressure them, should be able to make their own decisions.

Why should anyone have to seek a solution away from our shores?

As in the fable, it is impossible to satisfy everyone, but we know the result: everyone is disappointed.

The government should ensure that all sections of a free and democratic society are catered for.

In my opinion, legislation should never be designed to cater for just one section of the population.