Vol. 542 No. 6
228 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who is trying to obtain information from the Western Health Board will receive the information without further delay. [25567/01]
I have been in contact with the Western Health Board in relation to this case. I understand that the board wrote to this person on 15 October 2001 providing non-identifying information from the file and indicating that the case would be allocated to a social worker early in the new year. The Deputy will be aware that the Government approved the draft heads of the Adoption Information, Post Adoption Contact and Associated Issues Bill in May of this year. The legislative proposals give information rights, including access to birth certificates and personal information for adopted people and people who have been raised in care.
A State-funded tracing and reunion service will be provided both by the health boards and by agencies many of whom already have expertise in this area. I will ensure adequate structures and resources are in place to provide this service in an appropriate and timely manner.
