asked the Minister for Justice whether, in view of the recommendations of the Poor Law Commission, contained in paragraphs 256 and 259 of their Report, he will take steps to introduce proposals for legislation to amend the existing laws relating to the protection of women and girls; whether that legislation will provide for the legitimation, in certain cases, of illegitimate children; and, if so, when those proposals for legislation will be introduced.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - PROTECTION OF WOMEN AND GIRLS.
A Bill to enable affiliation orders to be granted in respect of illegitimate children has been drafted. It is at present being considered by the Minister for Local Government and Public Health, whose observations I have asked for. I expect to be in a position to introduce this Bill at an early date. A Bill dealing with the age of consent is in an advanced stage of preparation, and as soon as certain aspects of this question which cause some difficulty have been finally considered I shall be in a position to bring forward proposals for legislation. The third matter referred to by the Deputy, namely, legitimation, is also under consideration, and I hope to introduce a Bill dealing with it in due course. Owing to the number of matters which require legislation I cannot, however, promise to introduce this particular Bill as early as the other two already mentioned.