asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the serious public protests in Britain against comic papers which are detrimental to youth, he will ensure, if necessary by the introduction of proposals for legislation, that the printing and publication of such periodicals are not permitted in this country so that it may not become a centre for the distribution of such literature.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Harmful Comic Papers.
As a result of my inquiries through the police I am satisfied that this country is not—and is no danger of becoming—a centre for the distribution of publications of the highly objectionable type mentioned in the question. I have seen some specimen copies of "comic" papers printed in this country which, in my opinion, are not proper for reading by young people, but these specimens are not of such an objectionable nature as to warrant the enactment of legislation for their prohibition.
The Deputy may rest assured that the situation is being closely watched.
Has the Minister's attention been drawn to the fact that it has been stated in cross-Channel newspapers that some of these "comics" have imprinted on them: "Printed in the Republic of Ireland"?
That seems to be a separate question.
We have secured a promise from the printer in question that he will not print any more of the type of material that has been mentioned.