Illegal Adoptions in Ireland

5th March 2021

Boyle Solicitors welcomes the broadcast this week of “Who Am I? The Story of Ireland’s Illegal Adoptions” this week on RTE.

The documentary highlights the trauma caused by the widespread practice whereby babies of unmarried mothers were illegally adopted, either through agencies/charities or private arrangements facilitated by professionals. The babies were removed from their natural mothers and given false identities (including falsified birth certificates).

It is thought the numbers of babies illegally adopted in this way may be in the tens of thousands. Many have only discovered late in life that they are not their parents’ natural children. Many still do not know the truth of what happened to them or where they really came from, and sadly, meaningful assistance from State agencies has not been forthcoming to date.

Boyle Solicitors is assisting some victims of illegal adoption with their cases. If you wish to discuss your matter, please contact Melanie Boyle to see how we can help you.