Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

If it were that simple, I would proceed in the manner outlined by Deputy Ross. I am considering the precise implications of changing the position. I understand why he might advocate that we should just bring an end to what is happening, particularly as it would not have implications for any other approaches to adoption and consent. However, I am of the view that there are implications for other aspects of the adoption process. I am teasing out precisely what are those implications. I want to change the position in legislation and I will do so as soon as possible. I am informed that if we were to make the change the Deputy suggests, it would have a knock-on effect on other aspects of the legislation. As stated, however, the new Parentage Bill, which is due to be introduced either prior to the end of this year or earlier next year, will provide an opportunity to make some changes. I will deal with this issue in the context of the adoption legislation I propose to introduce.

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