Vol. 487 No. 6
188 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in appointments to the Adoption Board; if he will make a statement on the difficulties this delay is causing to parents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4591/98]
As Deputy Shortall will no doubt appreciate, there were a number of administrative arrangements including the submission of a Memorandum to Government, which had to be undertaken in relation to appointment of the Adoption Board. However, as I recently advised the House, the Adoption Board is now appointed for a five year term of office with effect from 10 February 1996.
Given the pressure of work in my Department, I am satisfied that the board was appointed without any undue delay. Any difficulties being experienced by parents are very much regretted and will be addressed by the new board as soon as possible.
