Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
866. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if an application (details supplied) can be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40558/23]
View answerWhile the Child and Family Agency, Tusla operates under the aegis of my Department. It is a statutory body independent in its decision-making functions, and as Minister, I cannot intervene in individual cases.
I am deeply conscious of both the disappointment and frustration caused to applicants receiving a notification indicating that there will be a delay in the compilation and release of their information. However, I would note that once cases are complete and people have received their information, the feedback in the majority of cases has been very positive.
Both the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) and Tusla are doing their utmost to respond to all the applications received within the shortest possible timeframe. To date, over 10,000 applications for information have been received by Tusla and the AAI. These applications are in addition to the over 5,000 applications made for tracing services, and over 3,500 preferences registered to the Contact Preference Register.
Processing the initial significant volume of information requests, reflecting decades of increasing demand, is proving to be a challenge. However, the two agencies have completed over 7,000 of these requests for information, with more due for completion and issue each day. I have been assured by both agencies, that they will continue to keep applicants updated as to the status of their applications, and anticipated timelines for the release of their information.
I would urge any applicant that has concerns or queries regarding the release of their information under the Birth Information and Tracing Act 2022, to get in touch with the relevant body to which they applied.
