James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I support the point made by the previous speaker. Can the Tánaiste indicate when the civil union Bill will come before the House? It appears to have been lost somewhere along the line.

In regard to intercountry adoption, the Adoption Bill 2009 is being debated in the Seanad. Various ethical and legal issues appear to have arisen in regard to intercountry adoption. Will the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children outline these issues for the sake of people who are in emotional turmoil as they wait to adopt children and find the current situation untenable? They are totally confused because are not getting the clarity of information they need. If there is a specific problem, can it be addressed through legislation? Will the Minister of State do the people the service of telling them what is the problem?

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