Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2021
1020. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the amount spent on advertising to consult adopted persons, survivors, natural mothers and relatives on the general scheme of the birth information and tracing Bill 2021. [31732/21]
View answerI published the General Scheme and Heads of Bill of the Birth Information and Tracing Bill on the 11th May 2021, including a press release, and frequently asked questions document. I am engaging extensively in a consultation process with stakeholders, including a bespoke consultation with those affected by illegal birth registration. I am grateful to all those who have given of their time to this consultation process and I welcome all observations on the Bill. While consulting intensively with all interested parties, I have not utilised any budget on advertising to date.
I also note that the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has invited submissions on the proposed legislation. I greatly look forward to participating in the pre-legislative scrutiny process and to hearing the views put forward by stakeholders.
It is also my intention, as set out in the Heads of Bill, to engage in a public awareness campaign on the enactment of the legislation. This public awareness campaign will run over a three-month period initially during which it will be advertised nationally and internationally. The purpose of this campaign will be to inform affected persons of the changes brought about by this legislation and of their rights under this legislation.
