Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I accept that the Senator in his capacity as a public representative and a Member of this House for many years is entitled to ask questions. and that I have a duty to provide answers. It is my intention to meet the Adoption Authority of Ireland during the next few weeks. I will specifically address with it the issue of a timeframe for completion of the review.

On the accredited agencies which the Senator has described as third parties, under international obligations, we must establish such agencies to assist in and facilitate the process. The Senator's remarks on costs relate to one of these agencies. There are costs involved and I accept the Senator's remarks on the scheduling of fees. In the circumstances it is important that costs be kept to a minimum and that there be full transparency in the process. I am sure the Senator will accept that there are costs involved.

I will arrange an early meeting with the Adoption Authority of Ireland. I am conscious of the remarks made by the Senator which I will bring to the attention of the chairman of the authority. I hope to have an opportunity to report back to the House on the issues raised by the Senator in the not too distant future.