The Government is leaving Irish families with empty cots as inter-country adoption links break down, a local Fine Gael senator has claimed.
Fidelma Healy Eames is calling on the Government to “come clean” and spell out the extent of the difficulties surrounding inter-country adoption, stating who is responsible and where the hold-ups lie.
“The Government’s lack of transparency in relation to the adoption of children from countries such as Russia and Vietnam is devastating those who have been waiting, many for years, for the news that they are to become parents.
“The Government’s dithering over the renegotiation of a bilateral agreement with Vietnam has crushed the hopes of many who have patiently stayed the course in the hope of becoming parents. Now, the news that the HSE has not complied with ensuring that post-placement reports are being sent to children’s countries of birth following their adoption has caused Ireland to be black-listed by the Russian authorities, further decimating the dreams of many.”
The Oranmore senator says she has received letters from numerous families distraught at what she terms the Government’s “lack of transparency” in relation to inter-country adoption, particularly in its dealings with Vietnam and Russia.
“As an adoptive parent myself I understand the worry and strain this endless unknowing brings to bear on couples and relationships. The Government’s refusal to recognise the nightmare being experienced by prospective adoptive parents and its unwillingness to speak frankly and openly with them in relation to where and why the problems occur, is further exacerbating the anxiety of those forced to endure an unbearable waiting game.”
