asked the Minister for Justice whether the Irish Government was consulted by the British Government before the removal of the restrictions on travel between Ireland and Great Britain; and, if so, if he will indicate what was the Irish Government's attitude on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Travel Restrictions.
Mr. Boland
The Government was informed beforehand that the British Government had decided to abolish the British immigration controls on passenger traffic from Ireland as from the 7th April. Its attitude was that the abolition of a British control was a matter for the British themselves.
I wonder is the Minister satisfied that one of the purposes for the removal of the control is not the inducement of emigration from here to Britain of workers? Is that not one of the reasons which prompted the British Government at this stage to remove the restriction?
Mr. Boland
I am not privy to the motives which prompted the British Government at all. As the Minister for External Affairs already said they did it for their own reasons. It is none of our Government's business to ask them why they did it as it is a matter for them and for them alone.
Do I take it that from now on any Irish citizen, male or female, can travel without let or hindrance to Britain?
Mr. Boland
Yes.
Is there any means of checking the actual number which leaves this country annually? Will statistics be kept to show what numbers left and the purpose for which they leave?
Mr. Boland
I cannot say that; that is another question.
I do not think so.
Mr. Boland
I will have to have it examined. This means that they are reverting to the position as it was before the war. The restriction on travel to Britain was imposed as a war measure and it has been removed by the British for their own reasons.
The reason for my question was——
Mr. Boland
To prevent emigration of labour from Mayo.
It is not. What I want to elicit is whether some Minister in the future will be able to answer a question in this House and show what number has emigrated from this country.
Mr. Boland
That is a separate question.
Deputy Blowick will be able to multiply it anyway.