Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the position regarding changes in the adoption law in relation to declaration extensions (details supplied); the measures she will take to address this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4610/13]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of concerns raised by prospective adoptive parents whose declarations for eligibility and suitability to adopt will expire on 31 October 2103. The Adoption Act 2010 requires that these applicants must apply to the HSE under Section 37 of the Adoption Act 2010 for assessment and issuance of a declaration of eligibility and suitability to adopt.

I have asked the AAI to advise me on what system improvements can be put in place to facilitate an appropriate and timely assessment process for applicants whose declarations of eligibility and suitability will expire. I have arranged for officials from my Department, together with officials from the HSE and AAI, to meet shortly to discuss the nature of the assessment process to be undertaken in these cases and the timescale for carrying out such assessments. I am willing to consider to consider legislative amendments if required. In the meantime the AAI have advised me that the AAI and HSE will ensure that any applicant with a referral pending will be prioritised for assessment and issuance of a declaration of eligibility and suitability.