New legislation to streamline adoption process

The Government is publishing new legislation to reform and streamline the adoption process.

The Adoption Bill 2009 gives effect to the Hague Convention, which outlines more rights and structures for people wishing to adopt children from abroad.

The Bill also sets up more safeguards for the adoption of children in Ireland.

Under the proposed legislation, the current Adoption Board will be replaced by a new Adoption Authority.

The Bill will outlaw all adoptions from countries that have not ratified the Hague convention, including Russia.