Both parents are now involved in the adoption process. Fathers must be consulted about the adoption where this is possible. If it is not possible or it is inappropriate to consult the father the Adoption Authority, after first obtaining the approval of the High Court, may make the adoption order without consulting the father. Where the father is a guardian then his consent to the adoption is required by law.
If you wish to apply to adopt, contact your local HSE adoption team. The HSE may do the assessment itself or it may ask an agency accredited by the Adoption Authority to do the assessment.
If you are considering placing your baby for adoption you may find the following leaflets useful. They are useful to both mothers and fathers. Please note that these leaflets are currently being updated to reflect recent changes in legislation. If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact a Treoir Information Officer on 01 6700 120.
The "Introduction to Adoption" leaflet briefly outlines what’s involved in adoption. This booklet is useful for parents who are in the early stages of considering placing their child for adoption.
It is also available in:
The "Adoption in Ireland Today" booklet gives details on the legal aspects of adoption. The booklet is useful for parents who are considering placing their children for adoption.
The "Workbook for Parents in the Adoption Process" is for parents who are actually going through the adoption process with adoption social workers and encourages parents to examine in detail the implications of both placing a baby for adoption and parenting the baby.
The "Step Parent Adoption" leaflet is where a mother has a child outside marriage, is now married to a man who is not the father of the child and wants her husband to have a legal link with her child.
If you would like to talk through your individual situation, don’t hesitate to call us on our confidential LoCall number 1890 252 084.
