Adoption Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2012

Tuesday, 21 February 2012

Questions (555)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

590 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in view of the pre-Hague declarations being extended to 31 October of this year where there were 556 declarations of prospective adoptive parents, if it can be guaranteed that these declarations will be extended until adoptions are finalised; if the declaration can be made valid for five years to give applicants a fair chance to adopt; the way the declarations will be managed as they will expire at the same time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9373/12]

Written answers

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald)

The Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) is an independent statutory body charged with implementing the Adoption Act, 2010. The Authority has responsibility for the direct operational implementation of legislation and Government policy.

Under Section 41 of the Adoption Act, 2010, the Adoption Authority may extend by one year a valid Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability to Adopt. The Authority will post an update on this matter on its website no later than 30th March 2012.