Labour MP wants discussion on surrogacy

Labour MP Romilda Zarb has called for discussion regarding surrogacy in Malta, as she spoke about the need to address the realities of women who cannot carry a child due to medical conditions or risks to their lives. 

Speaking in parliament on Monday, Zarb noted that Malta should not avoid difficult subjects, pointing out that previous controversies surrounding IVF eventually led to over 1,000 births. She reminded that progress has already been made in this area through the extension of maternity leave to parents who have children via surrogacy abroad. 

Last Sunday, IVF consultant Christine Schembri Deguara told MaltaToday that the time for Malta to reopen the debate on legalising surrogacy and amend legislation to allow lesbian couples to use the same sperm donor has arrived.

The MP also announced the upcoming launch of Malta’s first Women’s Health Strategy during the current legislature. This policy initiative recognises that women’s health requirements deserve dedicated attention rather than being treated as an extension of general health. 

Zarb said that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and medications for endometriosis will be added to the government formulary to be provided free of charge. Zarb identified endometriosis as a national priority due to its significant long-term impact on a woman’s life and personal dignity.

The MP stated that these reforms aim to provide equitable opportunities for individuals facing medical obstacles to building a family.