Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

The figure refers to reports for over one year. In any case, much progress has been made on this issue. It is an issue that we have in common with other countries, unfortunately. The Russian authorities, I believe, simply decided to put the foot down to ensure they had all materials contemporaneously and there would be no delays in the furnishing of these post-placement reports. It is a legitimate policy decision on their part. We are trying to comply with this as quickly as possible and to allay fears on it.

Regarding the amendment, a difference has to be clarified between post-placement and post-adoption. In a domestic situation, placement is one matter and the adoption order follows that. We must be clear about the two different interpretations of this. On Committee Stage I pointed out that in Ireland an adoption is a termination of the relationship between the natural parent and the child. As such, the child is treated in law the same as any other child. Once the obligation to notify the Adoption Authority of bringing the child into the State or the placement of the child kicks in, there is also an obligation to notify the Health Service Executive.

The protections afforded to all children in the State are afforded to an adopted child under the Child Care Act 1991. People always want to ensure adopted children are treated the same as other children. Obviously the Health Service Executive has expertise in knowing what issues arise in adoption. These issues are dealt with under the Child Care Act. I, therefore, resist this amendment.