Damien English (Meath, Fine Gael)

When we discussed this matter on Committee Stage last year, the Minister of State said he would not make changes then, as he wanted to discuss the matter with the review group. The Minister of State has had a year to discuss it. If amendments, which I believe are not being taken today, were accepted it would change the matter. The Minister of State is trying to defeat my argument by concentrating on amendments Nos. 5 and 6. However, I am trying to argue the general principle that the parents should decide. To dismiss the matter now would be wrong, as we might not get the chance to discuss it later.

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, made it very clear in the Seanad that the adoption process differs from maternity in that it requires the full participation of both parents. He clearly said they are different. I do not see why they need to be linked. Why is the Minister of State afraid to break the link between maternity and adoptive leave? There is nothing wrong in doing that. They are two different scenarios. Is the Minister of State saying this is wrong in every other country? Is little old Ireland behind the times? Do we not realise that fathers too can raise children? What is so wrong with this? The Minister of State has had a year in which to refer it to the review group, if that was necessary. I cannot accept that.

See this speech in context