Maurice Hayes (Independent)

The law has already been changed in Northern Ireland. We may have an interest, therefore, through cross-Border bodies. I have considerable sympathy for the point raised by Senator Mansergh. I believe a conscience clause, such as that which exists for abortion and other issues, should be introduced. It would not deny people the opportunity to adopt because they could use other agencies. However, if particular agencies have a particular ethos, it is not unreasonable to accommodate them.