Micheál Martin (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)

Certainly, there is an issue with age verification for those who present as minors when they come into the country unaccompanied. Tusla has articulated that concern. It is not a simple issue to resolve because the initial response has been a humanitarian response. If someone presents as an unaccompanied minor, the obligation on Tusla is to make sure that they at least receive accommodation and some shelter. Tusla is criticised if something untoward happens and so on. It is a very serious issue. I will talk to the Minister for justice in respect of it. Again, it is in the context of migration and possibly trafficking. We do not always know what is occurring, but there is certainly an issue regarding the potential mixing of adults with young minors. That is a problem. Other issues can also arise.

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