In accordance with the provisions of the Adoption Act, 2010, the Adoption Authority of Ireland is the body with responsibility for the performance of the functions conferred on it under the legislation.
Section 57(2) of the Adoption Act, 2010, provides that an inter-country adoption effected outside the State, which conforms to the conditions specified in that section, is recognised and is deemed to have been effected by a valid adoption order, unless the adoption is contrary to public policy.
Under Section 33 of the Adoption Act 2010, the Adoption Authority shall not make an adoption order or recognise an inter-country adoption effected outside the State for joint applicants unless the applicants are a married couple who are living together.
The issue of same sex marriage is a matter which will be examined in the context of the Constitutional Convention.