Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Deputy for his question. It is hoped to take the adoption Bill in November.

On the other points raised by the Deputy, the issue from the Government's point of view is always to bring forward legislation that is consistent with Government policy. Much legislation is brought forward under the aegis of Private Members' time and this is the entitlement of any party or individual Member but such legislation may not be consistent with the Government position and therefore does not go beyond Second Stage.

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