Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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799. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if he will address a matter regarding the case of persons (details supplied). [22502/20]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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At the outset, I must clarify that, as Minister, I cannot involve myself in individual adoption cases.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Adoption Act 2010 provides that Declarations of Eligibility and Suitability to adopt are valid for 24 months, and may be extended for an additional 12 months. There is no provision in the adoption acts for a further extension.

I am aware that there are a number of families who have received Declarations of Eligibility and Suitability to adopt, and for whom the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on the adoption process. This is particularly the case where people are seeking to adopt from abroad, and where travel restrictions are imposed by other countries.

I am aware that considerable efforts are being made to arrange travel for these families, and this situation is actively being kept under review, with close engagement between my officials and the Adoption Authority of Ireland.