Minister for Children Katherine Zappone has today announced details of an adoption scandal where at least 126 births between 1946 and 1969 were incorrectly registered.
Tusla – Child and Family Agency has identified historical errors in the registrations of birth in the records of St Patrick’s Guild national adoption agency in Dublin.
The error means that some people born between 1946 and 1969 had their adoptive parents names on their birth certs rather than their birth parents.
Of the 126 people, 79 may not be unaware of the true circumstances of their birth and may not know they were adopted. A further 16 cases from the same time period are being examined to establish if they are also incorrect registrations.
Tusla has been tasked by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, with identifying, locating and contacting those affected, as a matter of urgency. While the 126 cases have been identified, significant work remains to identify, locate and inform those affected.
Tusla has created a dedicated team of experienced practitioners to carry out this work.
A helpline has been set up for anyone who has concerns about their adoption. The helpline number is 1800 805 665 and is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday.
