asked the Minister for Justice if he would consider introducing the grading of films for the protection of juvenile audiences such as applies in other countries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Grading of Films.
Mr. Boland
Sub-section (3) of Section 7 of the Censorship of Films Act, 1923, provides that if the official Censor of Films is of opinion that any picture is not fit for general exhibition in public he may grant a certificate for exhibition subject to such restrictions and conditions in regard to the places at which or the special conditions under which the picture may be exhibited or the classes of persons who may be admitted to see the picture, as in his opinion are necessary to prevent the exhibition of the picture in public being subversive of public morality.
The power of issuing such "limited certificates" has been seldom exercised because the censor takes the view that there is a danger that films with "limited certificates" would arouse unhealthy curiosity. He thinks it better to endeavour to ensure that no film is passed if it contains anything which would be seriously injurious to young minds.