Derek McDowell (Labour)

I am disappointed and a little surprised by the Minister's attitude. I have never known him to bow down quite as low at the alter of social partnership previously. Indeed, had I known he would take this approach I am sure we could have come up with some of his past rosy quotes on social partnership.

On a more serious level, this amendment is very narrow and would refer to a relatively small number of adopting parents. While not expecting the Minister to accept it today, the least we could ask him to do is to consider it again. I understand the Bill has to go through the Dáil and perhaps he might have a look at it in the meantime. I cannot imagine the cost implications would be great, nor can I imagine that either of the social partners would have a major objection to it. It is a matter of some detail.