Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

130. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the steps that she is taking to reform the stillbirth registration process, with particular reference to families who wish the records of their child to be publicly accessible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58459/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Registration of stillbirths in Ireland is voluntary. Access to the register is restricted to the parents of the child or authorised staff of the General Register Office (GRO) to reflect the sensitivity of parents. As a matter of practice, the GRO facilitate access to the register where the parents are unable to do so or are deceased. The GRO has examined the arrangements for registration and have proposed that a change in the Civil Registration Act 2004 will be required to provide for wider access to the register. The views of advocacy groups have been considered in the development of proposals to amend the Act.

I have asked for proposals to be made to me in order that the Government can consider what legislative provisions might be made. If the proposals are approved, I plan to publish a Bill early in 2023 to give effect to the agreed proposals.

I trust this information addresses the Deputy's enquiry.