I propose to take Questions Nos. 790 and 799 together.
The Adoption Authority launched an online notification and application system on the Authority's website on 13 April 2012 to allow prospective adoptive parents to apply to the Authority for an extension to their valid Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability in sufficient time before the expiry date of 31 October 2012. The Adoption Authority forwards applications made to this system to the HSE in order that an updated assessment of the applicants may be undertaken. The Authority has advised that it is a matter for the HSE to determine the criteria for these updated assessments. The Authority has asked the HSE to deal with the applications based on the original declaration date.
The HSE has advised that the process for renewals of adoption declarations under previous adoption legislation included the updating of documentation and visits from social workers to update assessments. In keeping with this previous practice, and given the length of time since original declarations were granted, the HSE has advised that all documentation needs to be updated to ensure that it accurately reflects the applicants current circumstances. Furthermore, the HSE notes that as the children likely to be available for adoption will be of an older age group (in compliance with the Hague Convention) and given that many applicants currently have declarations for the adoption of younger children, the older age group of children likely to be available for adoption will need to be taken account of in the renewal process. The HSE has advised that applications will be kept under review to ensure that those high on waiting lists will be accommodated.
In relation to the individuals referred to in the details supplied, the HSE has confirmed that information and the necessary documentation has been posted to them.
