9.—(1) The Minister may by order appoint a Central Authority (“the Central Authority”) to perform in the State the functions conferred on it by this Act or by virtue of the Convention.

(2) Pending the appointment of the Central Authority the Minister shall perform its functions, and references in this Act to the Central Authority shall be construed accordingly.

(3) The Minister may by order amend or revoke an order made under this section (including an order under this subsection).