Is responsible for the issue dividing child adoption (3)

I believe the answer is:

dad

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'is responsible for the' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'dividing child adoption' is the wordplay.
'DAD' is hidden within the letters.
However, I'm uncertain how the hidden word is indicated.

'issue' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dad that I've seen before include "Pop, pater" , "Mum's mate" , "Pa" , "Popular and informal father" , "Old man" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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