Philomena calls for adoption reforms

Philomena Lee, whose devotion to finding her adopted son inspired a recent film, has called for a more open adoption system here to allow people access their “genetic entitlement”.

Speaking at an event to commemorate all the woman and children who passed through the gates of Sean Ross Abbey in Roscrea, Co Tipperary, where her son Anthony is buried, the 82-year-old grandmother said Ireland needs to move to a more open adoption system similar to the UK.

“Of course I would welcome change [referring to the Goverment’s Adoption Bill],” said Ms Lee. I don’t see why the rest of the world is not like the UK. It’s not about bothering people that don’t want to be bothered it’s about getting your identity and you ould welcome that change,” said Ms Lee.