Can sperm or egg donors be paid for their donation?
In consultation with individuals and a broad base of stakeholder groups since the late 1980s, Canadians expressed clearly their values and ethical standards in this matter. To that end, they called for legislation to govern permissible AHR procedures and activities. Canadians told us in consultations leading up to the creation of the Act that the commercialization of the human reproductive capacity is not in keeping with Canadian values. Just as the commercialization of body parts is not allowed, neither is the purchase or commercial profit of sperm and eggs. Under the terms of the Act, no payment can be made to sperm or egg donors for their donation. However, recognizing that donors may incur expenses in making a donation, the Act does allow for the reimbursement of reasonable expenditures if done with a license and according to regulations. These regulations are currently being developed, and until they are finalized, donors may be reimbursed for an amount up to their actual expendit
