Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The requirements set out in section 34 are very wide. One of the criteria to be followed when determining suitability is that the applicant should be "in good health". How would one define "good health"? Is it not a very broad phrase? Questions could be asked about the "good health" of any of us. It has the potential to be interpreted in a wide, broad manner. As Deputy Jan O'Sullivan has said, there can be circumstances in which the natural parent may wish to adopt. The partner or spouse of a mother who is adopting her own child may not be "in good health", according to the determination of the person responsible for making such a decision. One's health changes as one moves through life, but that does not alter one's ability, commitment or suitability as an adoptive parent. This section of the Bill is all about suitability. I have to say Deputy Jan O'Sullivan is making a valid point. I have mentioned just one example - the ground of "good health" - from the set of criteria provided for in this section of the Bill. Not every person will be able to tick all of the boxes. That does not and should not preclude consideration of such a person's spouse or partner, if he or she applies to adopt. If the natural parent of the child is seeking to adopt, it is an indisputable situation. I strongly support the Deputy's appeal to the Minister of State.

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