Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

We are all aware of this issue. Many of us individually and in other capacities are aware of many parents and prospective parents who are anxious to proceed with adoption, provide a loving and caring environment for children and offer the gift of love and affection to them. Many of us are keenly aware of this issue.

Second Stage of the Adoption Bill allows for a discussion to take place in the House as to how we proceed, recognising that the Hague Convention is an important international benchmark. It will also enable the Minister to continue to reflect on how we might be able to proceed in a way that meets most of the requirements of the situation without ending up with a practical outcome that results in the delay of the implementation of those standards. We have to find a way forward in that respect.

The Minister of State, Deputy Barry Andrews, is available to speak with spokespersons or anyone in private about the status of the legislation and how we can proceed. The debate can be held in a constructive way to ensure, to the greatest extent possible and consistent with best international practice, how we proceed in this area, which I accept is deeply personal for many people.

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