Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the departmental officials for the work they have done to bring the Bill to this point. This is our third session and we have already heard from the Adoption Authority of Ireland and Tusla. This is our second last meeting on the topic and next week we will hear evidence from a number of witnesses representing a range of organisations and people, including foster parents, birth parents, adoptive parents and adoption agencies.

Members are reminded of the long-standing ruling of the Chair to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I invite the Minister to make his opening remarks.