Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I second the amendment.

Will the Minister respond to the concern raised by the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as well as a number of psychologists that it may be preferable for people conceived by assisted human reproduction to obtain information about their identity before reaching the age of 18 years? I have raised this issue on a number of occasions but the Minister has not commented on it. I ask her to address the matter because it concerns me. While I am unsure as to what is the appropriate age at which to obtain information, most of us are concerned that this information could have an impact on young people of a particular age. It may come as a major shock and surprise to them if they are not prepared for it. This scenario must be avoided because it could trigger a mental health issue. We must be careful as to how this matter is enshrined in law.

I know what the Minister is trying to do and agree with the idea that people should have access to information about their identity. However, I wonder if the age of 18 years may be too late and may create a problem for the person receiving this information. As I indicated in an earlier contribution, it could dislocate a young person's relationship with his or her parents.