Vol. 545 No. 1
344 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give details of Operation Shamrock in which 500 German children were institutionalised here under an agreement between the Irish and German Governments; if these children have ever been traced; the conditions of the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29843/01]
I understand the Deputy is referring to a scheme under which some German children were brought to Ireland after World War II. In the short time available to consider the Deputy's question, I have established that it appears the children were placed in foster care, rather than being placed in an institution. It also appears to be the case that my Department had no administrative responsibility in this matter, which more likely fell within the remit of the then Department of Health. Neither would there appear to be any records in my Department relating to this matter. However, I will refer the Deputy's question to the Department of Health and Children and the Department of Foreign Affairs, either or both of which may be able to provide the Deputy with the information he requests.
