Explainer: How historical adoptions continue to pose problems

Prof Conor O'Mahony, the special rapporteur on child protection, has been asked to make recommendations based on the Reynolds review. 

Delving into the murky way in which the 27 adoption agencies operated in this country is complex.

The recent publications of the Mother and Baby Homes Commission of Investigation report and a review of illegal birth registrations have shone a light on historical adoptions in this country, which were widespread but in many cases shady affairs.