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23/10/2018
Paramilitary Convictions 'May Not' Be Recognised In Adoption Applications
Official proposals surrounding the adoption of children in Northern Ireland could mean paramilitary convictions relating to potential parents will not be considered by authorities.
The plans have not yet been implemented due to the lack of government, along with other preparatory work for new measures to improve ex-prisoners' access to financial services like lending and travel insurance which is also on hold due to the political impasse.
Those with convictions acquired during the 30-year conflict currently face a range of challenges as a result of their criminal record.
The first report of the Independent Reporting Commission said: "The Department of Health is bringing forward proposals in relation to adoption legislation.
"The Adoption and Children Bill contains a specific power to make regulations which may provide that an adoption agency, in determining the suitability of an individual to adopt, must not take into account offences of prescribed description."
The ground-work on these issues is already in place, and the report said the changes can be progressed quickly upon the restoration of a functioning legislative assembly.
(JG/MH)
The plans have not yet been implemented due to the lack of government, along with other preparatory work for new measures to improve ex-prisoners' access to financial services like lending and travel insurance which is also on hold due to the political impasse.
Those with convictions acquired during the 30-year conflict currently face a range of challenges as a result of their criminal record.
The first report of the Independent Reporting Commission said: "The Department of Health is bringing forward proposals in relation to adoption legislation.
"The Adoption and Children Bill contains a specific power to make regulations which may provide that an adoption agency, in determining the suitability of an individual to adopt, must not take into account offences of prescribed description."
The ground-work on these issues is already in place, and the report said the changes can be progressed quickly upon the restoration of a functioning legislative assembly.
(JG/MH)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A fine end to the day with some evening sunshine. It remains mainly dry overnight with a touch of frost or fog patches possible in places. However, cloud is expected to increase towards dawn with the odd light shower. Minimum temperature 2 °C.
