The recent experience of RTÉ presenter Darragh McCullough highlights the significant challenges faced by Irish intended parents navigating international surrogacy. While surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for those unable to conceive naturally, the journey is fraught with legal, logistical, and bureaucratic hurdles that can complicate the joyous moment of welcoming a child into the world.
Darragh and his wife Aoife embarked on their surrogacy journey in North Cyprus after years of trying to start a family. The birth of their daughter Grace was a dream come true, but the realities of returning home with their newborn quickly turned into an unexpected ordeal. As they attempted to cross the border from North Cyprus to the EU-controlled South Cyprus, they were turned away at the checkpoint due to a sudden change in paperwork requirements—just one day before their attempted crossing.
This situation underscores a crucial reality of international surrogacy: regulations can change unexpectedly, and the interpretation of these laws by border officials can vary. Despite having legal representation, conducting DNA testing, and believing they had the necessary documentation, Darragh and Aoife found themselves stranded. The unexpected delay meant they had to navigate additional bureaucratic steps with the Turkish Interior Ministry, all while balancing the emotional strain of being away from home with their newborn.
For intended parents considering surrogacy, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of thorough preparation and expert guidance. The complexities of international travel, shifting legal requirements, and post-birth parental recognition can create unpredictable challenges. Darragh’s case highlights how even well-prepared parents can encounter unexpected obstacles—emphasising the need for flexibility, patience, and informed decision-making.
One of the key challenges in international surrogacy is the differing legal recognition of parentage. In Ireland, intended parents must apply for a parental order post-birth, meaning the legal status of their child can remain uncertain for weeks or months. Meanwhile, the EU’s fragmented approach to surrogacy means that border officials may not always recognise a newborn’s documentation, even if it is fully compliant with one country’s laws. Once they return to Ireland, Darragh and Aoife will have to go through the courts to secure guardianship rights for Aoife, highlighting the legal gaps that still exist for families formed through surrogacy.
Read more: Surrogacy in Ireland
Growing Families has long advocated for clearer, standardised policies that support the rights of children born via surrogacy and their intended parents. Darragh’s willingness to share his experience helps illustrate the reality of this journey—both the incredible joy and the unexpected difficulties. He hopes that by being open about their story, other couples facing similar challenges will see that surrogacy is an option, even if it requires determination and resilience.
While every surrogacy journey comes with complexities, access to the right resources can help mitigate risks and ensure a smoother transition home. At Growing Families, we remain committed to supporting intended parents through every stage of their journey, ensuring they have the guidance and resources necessary to navigate these challenges successfully.
To learn more about navigating international surrogacy and the latest legal developments, join us at our EU/UK Surrogacy & Donor Conception Conference in London. This event will feature expert speakers, real-life experiences, and essential insights to help you make informed decisions. If you’re considering surrogacy or currently in the process, reach out to us for expert advice and assistance to help make your journey as smooth as possible.
