Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I have already met the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs and she is well aware of my position. I also met a cross-party group and many children's organisations. I will say "Yes" if it is sensible; otherwise, I will say "No" and I will always challenge something if I have concerns about it.

Urgent problems face children in this country. The State must respond in a proportionate manner when vulnerable children are at risk. The necessary resources are not being delivered. I understand the resource issue but we must be on the ball and positive where vulnerable children are at risk. Irish law continues to treat families with married parents differently to parents who are cohabiting or single. There are serious knock-on effects for children. There are gaps in the legal system and, because of legal loopholes, it is almost impossible to adopt children placed in State care if they were born to a married couple. Up to 2,000 children live in a state of limbo, unable to be adopted by their long-term foster parents. I will be supporting the legislation.

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