At a group home in Esashi-cho, Hokkaido, a resident with an intellectual disability suggested sterilization when he wanted to get married or live together in the facility. He said that it would be inappropriate to set a condition contrary to the above, and that he would consider the response after grasping the facts.
For more than 20 years, a group home operated by the social welfare corporation "Asunaro Fukushikai" in Esashi-cho, Hokkaido has proposed sterilization procedures to residents with intellectual disabilities who wish to marry or live together in the facility. So far, 16 people in 8 groups have responded.
At a press conference, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Kato said, ``If a user wishes to get married, it is not appropriate if sterilization is required against his or her will.''
He also said, "It's not that you can't raise a child because you have a disability. It is very important that welfare services for the disabled and child-rearing support are provided reliably to support the lives of people with disabilities and the upbringing of their children." pointed out.
Then, based on the results of the investigation in Hokkaido, he indicated that he would consider the response after grasping the facts.