The Law Reform Commission has said 16 and 17 year olds should be allowed to seek or refuse medical treatment without the consent of their parents.
In a report to be published later today, the group recommends changes to the law which would mean such teens can access a range of treatments including surgery, contraception and mental health services - even if their parents do not approve.
However, the Commission stresses that minors under the age of 16 should not be presumed competent to consent to or refuse medical treatment - except in "exceptional circumstances".