Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)

Well done to the Minister with regard to the Vietnam agreement. Let us hope it is established by 1 May so there is no breakdown for the couples in the process of adopting there. I wish to focus on Russia. I am aware of a number of couples — I am close to one of them — who have been approved to travel to Russia. This Bill is going through the Oireachtas at a rapid pace and if the Bill is enacted before the adoption process has been completed, will they be unable to adopt from Russia? This is unbelievable. I seek a commitment that, at the very least, adoptions in process, that is, where a declaration has been given by the social worker and the Adoption Board that within six months the couple can travel and identify a child in Russia for adoption, will be facilitated. We are talking about people in their mid-40s, who have spent five to six years getting to this stage only to discover that they might not now legally adopt from Russia because a bilateral agreement is not in place.

What is the position regarding the bilateral agreement with Russia? Will the Minister discuss the position of the couples that are currently in the process? It will be a terrible outcome for people who have gone so far in the process if it is stopped at this stage. The Minister will be aware that they are currently identifying with agencies in Russia for a suitable baby. That is how close they are to adopting. This Bill was introduced two weeks ago and it is already on Committee Stage. It is going through the Oireachtas rapidly. If another six months were available, couples in the process might have their adoptions finalised. We must think of the couples in the process. I look forward to the Minister's response on that point.