David Norris (Independent)

I second the amendment, which represents a further stage of development on the position we considered in the context of the previous amendment. I am of the view that amendments Nos. 6 and 7 are closely related because we are moving on to deal not just with the birth parents but also with the adoptive parents, namely, those who are assuming responsibility for the child.

This is an extremely important matter. The point I made in respect of amendment No. 6 stands and is even more relevant. At present, adoption agencies of various kinds provide intermediary information and tracing services to birth parents, adopted adults who may wish to discover the nature of their origins and adoptive families. However, the legislation leaves a gap and does not provide any legislative basis for this work. There is no support from the Legislature for the work being done in this area by support bodies, which is of considerable concern to those involved professionally. They would like to have proper recognition and a legislative basis to support them in their provision of services.