Treoir welcomes the many positive changes introduced by the Adoption Act 2017, in particular, the provision allowing step-parent adoption without the peculiar requirement for the biological parent to adopt his or her own child. Until  now the only way for a step-parent to adopt a child was to apply jointly with the child’s natural parent.

The best interests of the child will be the paramount consideration in relation to any adoption matter, application or proceedings. The Act also makes it compulsory that the views of the child should be ascertained and be given due weight by the Adoption Authority or by the court.

Treoir Press Release Commencement of the Adoption (Amendment) Act 2017