Patrick D. Harte
Question:16 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for Labour when legislation will be introduced to provide for maternity leave for adoptive parents; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Maternity Leave for Adoptive Parents.
Alan Shatter
Question:58 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Labour when it is intended to implement the budget proposal announced in January 1992 to extend maternity benefit to adoptive parents; and the reason for the delay in implementing this proposal.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 58 together.
The position is that a commitment was made in the Budget Statement of the Minister for Finance on 29 January that the necessary arrangements to provide for a scheme of leave and a corresponding benefit scheme for adoptive mothers would be introduced later this year.
My Department and the Department of Social Welfare are responsible for drafting the legislation to provide for adoptive leave and adoptive benefit, respectively. As the Deputies will appreciate, the situation in relation to adoption has become more complex in recent years with the changing pattern of adoption, the increase in foreign adoptions and the enactment of the Adoption Act, 1991. Accordingly, it has been necessary to examine a range of issues very thoroughly in order to ensure that the legislation when introduced is comprehensive and effective.
My responsibility relates to the provision of adoptive leave. The necessary legislation is being prepared and it is my intention to introduce it later this year.
I disagree with the Minister that this issue has been complicated by the increase in foreign adoptions. Adoption is adoption; a child is adopted and the relationship between the adoptive parents and the child has to be developed. I should like the Minister to explain the delay in introducing the legislation and to say why it is not ready to be introduced in the House now.
I sought to answer that question in my initial reply. Despite the Deputy's assertions to the contrary, she can take it from me, as a legal practitioner, that adoption is a complex issue. I want to ensure in the introduction of maternity leave for adoptive parents that I cover all cases. The issue of foreign adoptions is a separate one, and different legal considerations apply. I have sought a report and looked at the matter, and I am satisfied that we are now in a position to proceed. In line with the commitment given, I will introduce the legislation this year. I would rather introduce the legislation a little later than expected to ensure it is correct rather than introduce it early and create problems down the line.
That disposes of questions for today.