35 US-born babies have been adopted by Irish families in the last 4 years

Over the past four years, 35 American born babies have been adopted by Irish families.

Children's Minister Katherine Zappone released the information while on a visit to New York this week. She stated that most of the babies were six months old when they arrive in Ireland and have come from New York, Florida, California and Pennsylvania. According to Newstalk, she met with the Irish Adoption Authority in New York to discuss the Irish-American agreement which allows Irish families to adopt from the US. Speaking about the news, Minister Zappone said:

"Every child deserves a loving and safe home - and distance should be no object in achieving that goal. The Irish Adoption Authority under the Chair of Dr Geoffrey Shannon and the leadership of CEO Patricia Carey are to be congratulated for having the vision to put in place our arrangement with the United States. For 35 children from New York, Florida, California and Pennsylvania the agreement has meant a new life in Ireland. One can only imagine the hope, joy and love that each of these adoptions represents."