Last week I raised the issue of the Government's independent rapporteur on child protection. His report was given the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in January or February of this year and it has yet to be laid before the House. Could I get an indication as to when that report will be laid before the House?

I refer to the independent commission of investigation into the mother and baby homes. We all agree it is important that we get the terms of reference right. The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs has engaged widely with the interested parties but the Government promised that the terms of reference would be published before the summer recess in July of this year. It is now almost October and we are still awaiting publication of the terms of reference. One of the key issues here relates to the adoption (tracing and information) Bill to give people who were adopted, whether forcibly, illegally or otherwise, the right to their identity. When will the terms of reference be published and when will the important adoption (tracing and information) Bill be brought before the House?

I understand the Tánaiste is replying to the Deputy in regard to the rapporteur's report. The hope is that it will be laid before the House shortly. In regard to the terms of reference, there have been some changes in ministerial office but it continues to be a priority so I do not think there will be a delay. I think the adoption (tracing and information) Bill will be brought forward next year. Much work has been done by the Attorney General in that regard and advice has been given. It is hoped that Bill will be presented next year.