To ask the Minister of Health when he will implement the New Decade, New Approach commitment to fund three cycles of IVF treatment.

It is not yet possible for me to provide an implementation date for the increase in IVF cycles. I have always been clear that providing up to three cycles of IVF treatment for those who are eligible will require sustained investment to enable the Regional Fertility Centre to deliver greater volumes of treatment. Whilst work is ongoing to develop the necessary business case and implementation plan for this, the member will be aware that long term affordability remains a major issue in the absence of an agreed Executive budget for the next three years.

Once funding is in place, it is likely that a phased approach to firstly two, and then three cycles will be adopted. This is to ensure that the service is not overwhelmed by demand and that waiting lists do not increase significantly, as well as the need to ensure there is adequate capacity to deliver, including within the independent sector initially.

Once there is clarity on future funding and implementation, a Frequently Asked Questions guide will be developed to assist patients to understand the new arrangements, including eligibility.