THE Government defeated the Fianna Fail private member's Adoption Bill by 55 votes to 42.

The Bill, which was introduced by the party's spokesman on equality and law reform, Dr Michael Woods, provided for the registration in Ireland of adoptions made in China. The Minister of State for Health, Mr Austin Carrie, claimed the Bill was fundamentally defective and said the Government would bring forward its own proposals.

The PD spokeswoman on education, equality and law reform, Ms Helen Keogh, said the committee system should be used to improve the Bill. "It may not be perfect, but it has the potential to alleviate specific problems which are causing a great deal of suffering to continue for children and prospective parents."

Earlier, on the Order of Business, Dr Woods criticised the Government for not accepting the Bill. "I deeply regret that the Government is taking this attitude in relation to tiny babies."

The Tanaiste, Mr Spring, said there were issues arising from the Keegan case on adoption which needed to be dealt with. The Minister for Health would be coming to the Government with proposals arising from that case within a fortnight. The intention was to incorporate all changes required in relation to adoption legislation and bring it before the House as quickly as possible.