Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

Section 14 provides for the mother or guardian placing a child for adoption to be supplied with a written statement explaining that the placement is the beginning of the adoption process, the effect of an adoption order and the consents necessary, and requires that the mother or guardian sign a document stating that he or she understands the import of the written statement. Mothers are always treated sensitively in respect of these issues, particularly with regard to their individual circumstances, and this will continue to be the case. There are many agencies involved in the support of mothers who are in crisis and who may be considering adoption. I accept that in this Bill we are not specifically providing for such counselling. However, it is my intention to consider this amendment for inclusion on Committee Stage in the Dáil.