asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that persons born in Northern Ireland and now resident in this part of Ireland who are deemed to be natural-born citizens of Ireland under the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1935, are or may be disqualified from holding a major interest in companies under the provisions of the Control of Manufactures Acts, 1932 to 1934, and whether in view of the provisions of Article 40.1. of the Constitution he will introduce proposals for legislation to ensure that in this regard all citizens are treated equally.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Six-County Citizens.
I am aware of the position as stated in the first part of the question. As the Deputy is aware, the Control of Manufactures Acts make provision for the issue of licences to enable non-qualified persons to engage in manufacture in this country in certain circumstances, and it has for some time past been the practice to give special and favourable consideration to persons born or resident in the Six Counties in the issue of such licences.
I do not, therefore, consider it necessary to introduce special legislation to deal with this matter.