§ Captain SHEEHANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that there is a rule of the Royal Irish Constabulary Code which forbids con stables marrying until they have had seven years' service or obtained the permission of their authorities; can he explain what the object of this rule is and whether a constable found guilty of an infringement of it is liable to instant dismissal; and whether, having regard to the population and marriage statistics in Ireland, the State will encourage all eligible young men to marry, instead of putting restrictions in their way?
§ Mr. SAMUELSThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The rule is of long standing, and is necessary for the proper administration of the force A constable who marries without leave is liable to disciplinary punishment, but it is not usual to dismiss from the service for that cause alone.