Regulator launches survey to improve adoption standards

The independent body is now looking for feedback from adoptees in Ireland, as well as birth parents and adoptive parents, on the work they do as part of a new strategic plan.

The Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) has launched its first ever survey appealing for feedback from adoptees, parents, and adoptive parents.

The AAI is the statutory regulatory authority and its aim is to improve the standards in both domestic and international adoptions. Domestic and intercountry adoptions into Ireland are only approved by the AAI or the courts.

The independent body is now looking for feedback from adoptees in Ireland, as well as birth parents and adoptive parents, on the work they do as part of a new strategic plan. The initiative will cover the period from 2025 to 2027.

The survey questions cover several areas, including engagement with the AAI; areas of strength and areas for improvement; its performance; communication and collaboration; future focus; and any additional comments people may wish to provide.

Submissions will be used exclusively for developing the AAI’s next strategic plan and will only be shared internally and with the AAI’s appointed consultants and will not be circulated outside of the AAI.

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Newly appointed CEO of The Adoption Authority of Ireland, Dr Lorraine Horgan, said one of her goals is to find new ways of listening and reaching out to the AAI’s service-users.

“This public consultation process will provide essential information for our new Strategic Plan,” she said.

“Insights obtained through this consultation will inform how the AAI can continue to advance our mission of ensuring the provision of the highest possible standards of adoption-related services.

“The AAI continues to develop how it discharges its statutory functions and delivers its services. Feedback from anyone affected by adoption is vital to our development."

The online survey will remain open until July 15. The AAI is keen to hear from its service-users and anyone who has been personally affected by adoption.

Further information can be found online.