asked 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?

The 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.