asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether it is intended to sign and ratify the au pair charter of the Council of Europe.

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to a similar question from him on 24th June, 1971.

The question of Irish signature and ratification to the agreement is being actively pursued.

Can the Minister say what is impeding the signing?

There are certain administrative responsibilities which would be made necessary and this would mean the appointment of bodies to deal with the matter. These specific arrangements will have to be made in consultation with several other Departments. I hope we will be able to make progress in the near future.