Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 1:

In page 4, line 17, after "placement" to insert ", or earlier by agreement,".

This amendment seeks to make the Bill more user-friendly and clear. There may be circumstances in which it would be better for both parents and employers to begin adoptive leave just before the placement date. The provisions of the Bill in this regard are rigid. The amendment seeks to provide some flexibility so that, where there is agreement on all sides, adoptive leave may be taken earlier. As I explained previously, adoptive parents must make preparation for their baby in the same way as natural parents. While the circumstances are different, if there is to be full equality, as the Minister said on Second Stage, provision should be made for adoptive parents to prepare for their baby in the same way as natural parents. Where possible, two weeks leave should be provided before adoptive parents get their baby. This may not always be possible because sometimes adoptive parents get just one day's notice that they are getting their baby. Where there is time for that preparation, parents should be given an opportunity to inform their employer. Employers should know that parents are entitled to take this time off. I ask the Minister to accept my amendment.