To ask the Minister of Health to outline the timescale for consultation on and introduction of the Adoption Bill.

I intend to seek Executive agreement to consult on a draft Adoption and Children Bill, with a view to introducing the Bill in the Assembly as soon as possible in the current mandate. Exact timescales will be subject to Executive approval to public consultation and the outcome of the consultation.

My Department established an Adoption and Children Bill Stakeholder Group, made up of key stakeholders in the field of adoption and fostering from both statutory and voluntary agencies. This Group has assisted my officials in the drafting of the consultation document on the draft Bill. As part of the consultation process, my Department will seek views on a wide range of policy issues relating to adoption and children. Respondents will also be free to provide any additional comments.