Today the Birth Information and Tracing Act 2022 comes into effect. Why is this important? Well in a nutshell until this act came about adopted children had no right to access their own birth certificate meaning they could never find out where they came from, for many this creates a real issue around identity. The act also covers those who were adopted from Ireland to other countries, or adopted in Ireland but subsequently emigrated. Can read more about the act here: [Access to Birth Information in Ireland has changed](https://www.dfa.ie/irish-consulate/newyork/news-and-events/news-archive/birth-information-and-tracing-act-2022.html#:~:text=This%20landmark%20legislation%20provides%20a,in%20relation%20to%20their%20origins.)
The bbc also has a great article about some of these children who are now adults of all ages: [Secret Identities](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/extra/4q6srrmytr/secret-identities)
Hopefully today marks another step towards rectifying the wrongs that were committed against many women and children in the past. I imagine there will be some wonderful stories that come out of this and, unfortunately, horrifying ones aswells, but atleast there will be no more hiding it. I think people have a right to know where they come from so today is a good day!
9 comments
Does this mean those from sperm banks will find out the identity of their father?
Can confirm I’m gonna take advantage of this. I’ve no very little about where I was born or my birth parents.
I also know absolutely nothing about my family medical history so this’ll help big time.
Thanks for posting this! I had heard nothing of this but have now just submitted an application. Hopefully it will give me a better idea of family medical history and let me know if I have a brother or sister out there
This is a very good thing! The new system isn’t perfect but it’s a great improvement. Let the light of truth in!
I filled this out months ago when it went live first. Now we play the waiting game. I wonder do we get a phone call or email or just a thumbs down emoji. Exciting times ahead
Where’s the information leaflet that they were playing ads on the radio about over the summer that they said were being sent to every home???
Pat Mustard is shitting it.
I hope there is some protective measures for the biological parents too, not every parent wants to meet the children they gave up.
Was able to apply this morning. My mother who has since passed away was adopted from Sean Ross Abbey and so I am entitled to her medical info (if any) as her child.
Trying to convince my brother to apply for his information too but he’s afraid he’ll upset apple carts as his birth parents are more than likely very much alive (and probably have families of their own now). As I’ve said he already has a family, if he gets another – great, if not so what, he still has a family who love him and would do anything for him.