Commission proposes law change in favour of teenagers
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".
