Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Yesterday, I raised the issue of five Irish families whose referral for Russian adoptions are in jeopardy as a result of a change in the law in Russia. The Taoiseach advised me that the matter was being dealt with through diplomatic channels. Last evening, I was contacted by a member of one of the five families and advised that the Irish embassy in Russia has confirmed on Thursday last that diplomatic efforts had failed. I am unsure as to whether the Taoiseach was aware of this fact when he responded to my query yesterday. Now that he is aware of it, will he confirm whether the Government will act in a human and compassionate manner and amend the Adoption Act in order to facilitate the five families in question? The deadline is 31 October, which is fast approaching.

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