Adoption Authority of Ireland

The Adoption Authority of Ireland is an independent body established on 1 November 2010 under the Adoption Act 2010. The purpose of the Adoption Act 2010 is to improve standards in both domestic and intercountry adoption. Legal adoption was first introduced in Ireland under the 1952 Adoption Act. The 1952 Act was enacted on 1 January 1953 and the Adoption Board was established under this Act.

Our Goals

• To achieve the highest standard in the regulation and operation of adoption services in Ireland.
• To apply informed and balanced decision-making in adoption services, in accordance with national and international law and evidence-based practice.
• To inform and influence adoption policy and service delivery by reason of a practical understanding of the operations of the legislation through the provision of a comprehensive information, research and communications framework.
• To plan and implement the changes required in organisation policies and operational procedures in line with emerging legislative changes.
• To maintain an efficient, competent, accountable and learning organisation.