Foreign Adoptions

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 July 2012

Tuesday, 10 July 2012

Ceisteanna (414)

Kevin Humphreys

Ceist:

430 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the fact that an organisation (details supplied) requested an opinion from Kenya on the compatibility of laws in Kenya with Irish adoption laws on 2 March 2012; if this organisation is taking any steps to follow that opinion up; if so, the steps that will be taken, when they will expect a response; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33251/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald)

In March 2012 the AAI commenced a review of the adoption law(s) of Kenya, which has ratified the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The general review process followed by the AAI in such instances is detailed on the Authority's website. In the case of Kenya the AAI requested the preparation of a legal opinion and awaits receipt of same. Owing to the variable nature of the process in respect of each individual country, and the need to engage with legal experts in the country being assessed, there is no definitive or set timescale for the completion of such reviews. The AAI will provide all relevant information relating to reviews on its website at the appropriate time.