asked the Minister for Justice whether he proposed to introduce legislation for the better protection of women, young persons and children by amendment of the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 1885, so as to raise the "age of consent" and by making provision for affiliation orders and otherwise, or whether he would consider the desirability of appointing a small Committee to inquire into the existing state of the law in regard to these matters and make recommendations.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - THE CRIMINAL LAW AMENDMENT ACT.
I have already considered the introduction of legislation on the lines mentioned by the Deputy in his question, and have had heads of Bills prepared in my Department to amend the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 1885, and to make provision for affiliation orders. These Bills are at present in process of being drafted, and when drafted the question of their introduction will be finally considered. In the circumstances the appointment of a Committee is not necessary.