asked the Minister for External Affairs whether Irish passports were found in the possession of two alleged Russian spies in West Berlin in December 1966; and, if so, if he will state the manner or likely manner in which these persons gained possession of such passports.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Possession of Irish Passports.
17.
Mr. Barrett
I have seen the report the Deputy has in mind. I have had inquiries made and I could get no confirmation that Irish passports were found in the possession of two alleged Russian spies in West Berlin in December 1966.
In view of the publicity that this report received I wish to add that, as there are about 400,000 Irish passports in the hands of members of the public, some of them can fall into unauthorised hands in many ways including the usual ones, loss and theft.