Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I understand that but I have carried out the procedure on behalf of two children. The Minister of State is correct that the right is particular to natural fathers. A separate issue arises where the mother does not consent to the natural father being named as a guardian, regardless of whether he is on the birth certificate. An application to the courts is required in the latter instance but where the mother consents to the natural father being a joint guardian on an equal basis, the two can simply sign the declaration before a solicitor.