Robert Troy
Question:734. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if an application to adopt will be expedited (details supplied). [31849/26]
View answerWednesday, 6 May 2026
Questions (734)
Written answers
The Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) is an independent statutory body . It is the only body in Ireland that can grant or refuse the declarations of eligibility and suitability that are required for prospective adoptive parents to adopt a child; and the only body that can grant or refuse adoption orders.
The importance of timely decision-making for applicants cannot be understated. However, it is important to emphasise that the Adoption Authority of Ireland operates as an independent statutory body in the performance of its functions. In that context, neither I nor this Department has any role in individual adoption cases, nor can we intervene in or seek to expedite individual applications.
All adoption applications are considered by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of the Adoption Act 2010 (as amended) and having regard to the specific circumstances of each case: the best interests of the child concerned is, and must be, the paramount consideration.
Accordingly, while the Department maintains ongoing engagement with the Adoption Authority on matters of policy and resourcing, decisions on individual adoption applications are matters solely for the Authority.