asked the Minister for Justice whether his Department intend to bring forward legislation to prohibit the emigration of girls and boys under the age of 18, as at present unregulated movement permits children who have just left primary school to leave this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Prohibition on Emigration.
66.
This question has been raised on a number of occasions and it is quite apparent that, even if legislation of the kind suggested was accepted as being desirable and was possible under the Constitution, it would not be enforceable as far as emigration to Britain is concerned.
What difficulties does the Minister foresee?
There are very obvious difficulties. There is the difficulty of establishing age.
Surely anybody who presents himself at a port or airport could be required to produce a certificate?
If we were an insulated community it might be possible.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.