29.3.2008 Today I received a phone call from the Attorney-General's office informing me that my application for representation on the National Peak Body was unsuccessful. A big thank you to all who provided me with references - your confidence in me will be warmly remembered. Since 2000 (Romanian moratorium), I have been campaigning for more intercountry adoption programs from Europe. With more-or-less no domestic children available in Australia for adoption, couples have no choice other than to apply for intercountry adoption. Australian authorities have a negative attitude towards adoption and a penchant for Asian intercountry programs. By at least being on the Peak Body, there would have been a chance to inspire more European programs. So, I have decided that now is the time to bow out gracefully. I cannot help from the sidelines. This is not a matter of sour grapes or a need to save face - merely an opportunity to channel my energies elsewhere. To those people who have recently sent cheques for membership, rest assured that your cheques will be returned. Nevertheless, I offer this advice:
best of luck, Coral |