Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I again raise the issue of the bilateral adoption agreement with Vietnam. I asked the Leader yesterday for the report of the Minister of State on his meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam. I eventually received the report, for which I am very grateful. However, what I and the constituent who has been in regular contact with me were seeking is clear direction. She wonders how and when the bilateral agreement with Vietnam will be concluded and whether there is a timeframe. She is one of those who had her application and fees in before the deadline in May. She has been waiting since then, which is heartbreaking for her and her family as she understood she was one of those who would be able to adopt.

I respect the Minister of State's point that children's interests must be paramount and that we must have a proper agreement in conjunction with the Hague Convention. However, it seems to be going on for a long time. While the Minister of State referred to meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister last Friday, I would like to know the outcome of the meeting. I understand this was a trade mission but I would like to know whether there are any further developments. I urge the Minister of State to try to speed up the process and to get a proper agreement as soon as possible.