Ceist:
220 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will financially support the Adopted People's Association as it attempts to establish an office and staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24359/99]
Written Answers. - Adopted People's Association.
Conor Lenihan
Ceist:238 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children the support, if any, he will give to the Adopted People's Association for its valuable work (details supplied). [24518/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 220 and 238 together.
I am very much aware of the worthwhile work being done by a large number of very dedicated voluntary organisations, including the Adopted People's Association, in the complex area of adoption, tracing and reunion.
As I have stated previously in the House, work is under way on the preparation of legislation in the area of adoption information, post-adoption contact and associated issues. The Office of the Attorney General is being consulted in the ongoing development of the content of the legislation and it is hoped to have the scheme of a Bill presented to Government as early as possible in the year 2000. As the Deputies will appreciate, I do not wish to grant aid individual voluntary groups at this point in time as it would be inappropriate of me to pre-empt the outcome of the legislative process.
I am aware of the fact that the Adopted People's Association is anxious to see the establishment of a post-adoption services board or office as part of the planned legislation and this proposal is one of the many options which will be considered in due course, in the context of the administrative structures required to administer the provisions of the Act.