Update on Vietnam Bi-Lateral Agreement - 1st May 2009
The following two statements have been issued in relation to the Bi-Lateral Agreement with Vietnam:
Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Barry Andrews, T.D.
I would like to once again reiterate my personal commitment and the Government’s commitment to putting in place a new bilateral international adoption agreement with Vietnam. I am very aware of the anxiety being experienced by all applicants and their wider families. The pain, so clearly articulated in the many communications that I have received, leaves me in no doubt about the sensitivity of the issue and the importance attaching to it for all concerned.
The steps that we are taking are not intended to cause unnecessary angst and frustration. We are engaged in a process that seeks to strengthen the protection of children in intercountry adoption between the two countries.”
The Adoption Board has been advised by the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs that the existing state-to-state intercountry adoption agreement between Ireland and Vietnam expires on 1 May, 2009. Negotiations on a new agreement are continuing. To read the full statement click here http://www.adoptionboard.ie/
Vietnam Bi-Lateral Agreement - 29th April 2009
Statement by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Barry Andrews, T.D. on Intercountry Adoption with Vietnam
The expiration of the current bilateral international adoption agreement between Ireland and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam has given rise to concern for all prospective adoptive parents. I wish to thank the prospective adoptive parents and the representative groups for their patience and forbearance at this time. To read the full Statement click Minister's Statement on Bi-Lateral with Vietnam 29.04.09
Adoption Bill 2009 Launched by Minister Barry Andrews: