Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have some brief comments on section 7. I wish to record my thanks to the Minister for expressing, in her concluding remarks on Second Stage, her intention to introduce the information and tracing Bill in the Seanad on 7 March. I am grateful to her for confirming that in response to a specific query I had raised with her. Indeed, I tabled amendment No. 20 regarding an adoption tracing scheme with the intention of withdrawing it in light of the Minister's announcement on Second Stage. However, it has also been ruled out of order on the basis that it is a potential charge on the Exchequer. I had intended to support Senator Higgins's amendment No. 3 on a similar basis, in that it dealt with this very important issue for adopted children of knowing their identity and origins and, if possible, having information about their birth family. Her amendment addressed that key human concern.

I welcome the fact that the Minister will introduce the Bill I mentioned in the Seanad. I and my colleagues would also welcome the opportunity to meet with the Minister and her officials prior to that Bill being introduced so we could discuss some of the issues dealt with in the Bill and ensure our concerns about the sensitivities of all involved are met. This is a complex area and it has taken a long time to legislate on it. However, we addressed all of that on Second Stage. There is a huge welcome for this Bill, as there will be for the information and tracing Bill when it is introduced. Nevertheless, it would be good to have some consultation in advance about any potential amendments that might be made in the Seanad.