Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)

I move amendment No. 4:

In page 45, between lines 20 and 21, to insert the following:

"where an order to that effect is made by the High Court pursuant to section 23NF,".

This amendment concerns the HSE having the authority to give consent to the application for, and issuing of, a passport to a child or the provision of passport facilities to a child for various purposes which may involve a child having to move outside of the State. My amendment seeks to have such a process require a court order. This matter was raised by Barnardos which felt vulnerable children in such circumstances needed such a level of protection.

We are determined that this should be copperfastened by making it necessary to obtain the approval of the court. This is for the protection of the child concerned and it will ensure that the court will be satisfied there is a valid reason and that it is in the interests of said child to be removed from the jurisdiction. The amendment is self-explanatory and I hope the Minister of State will consider it.

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