Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 76: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has received a report on the continuing lengthy delays in processing applications by parents for adoptions overseas; her views on contracting out some of the work to the private sector in order that it could be completed in a more timely manner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15759/06]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The length of time it takes to complete the necessary assessment process for inter-country adoptions and the allocation of resources to that process within the Health Service Executive, HSE, is a matter for HSE management.

However, the Government allocated €1 million to the HSE in additional ongoing funding commencing in 2005 to assist in tackling inter-country adoption waiting times. This additional funding is used to pilot measures which will allow for more flexible working arrangements within the HSE with a view to addressing waiting times. The registered adoption society, PACT, has also received significant additional funding to allow them to expand their inter-country adoption services. The issue of contracting out the assessment work as raised by the Deputy is an operational matter and as such is a matter for the HSE.