Madam, - The decision by University College Cork to permit the use of stem cells harvested from destroyed embryos is of huge significance for the protection of life in Ireland and the values espoused by our people.
This move further underlines the need for legislation and, quite possibly, a constitutional amendment on this matter.
As a researcher, albeit in law, I am keenly aware of the need for Ireland to expand RD activity and to develop a knowledge-based economy. I am also aware of the potential that exists in the health sciences field, an area in which Ireland has developed a good reputation, for the development of new innovations.
I do not believe, however, that these scientific policy objectives should be achieved at any price.
One legal comparison is particularly relevant. Germany has traditionally had a very restrictive policy on embryonic stem cell research.
This is rooted in its basic law (Grundgesetz), the equivalent of our Constitution, which gives strong protection to human life. Post-war Germany's restrictive approach on this matter, in an otherwise very libertarian state, is due to its experience of the Nazi period when scientists were given the freedom to experiment on the disabled and others regarded as "subhuman".
Germany's response to the excesses of the past - when individual human life was at the service of the national interest - serves as a moving example of the need for us to carefully examine the moral implications of our decisions. - Yours, etc,
JAMES LAWLESS,
Government of Ireland Scholar,
UCD School of Law,
Belfield,
Dublin 4.