How can a minor child be considered self sufficient? They can't work and in reality are dependant on the parent(s)
Techincally, if the parent can provide funds, health insurance etc, then, in certain circumstances yes. Read the following links carefully
Chen v UK 2004
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chen_case
http://curia.europa.eu/jurisp/cgi-bin/g ... ance=CONCL
http://curia.europa.eu/jurisp/cgi-bin/g ... ance=ARRET
Beware, I am aware that the English Domestic Courts have ensured a narrow interpretation of this case, which the Irish will likely apply.THe Chen case has not really been considered in Ireland that much, because in many cases, the facts are different ie no self sufficiency or actual exercise of rights.
Recently, as pointed out by a poster in another thread, the Chen case was again considered, though only by the advocate general, who, despite clear and unanimous disagreement by the Commission and a number of other countries, including Ireland and Germany, appears to adopt a wide and liberal approach. The Judges have yet to decide
http://citylawresearch.blogspot.com/201 ... brano.html
http://curia.europa.eu/jurisp/cgi-bin/f ... Rechercher
I would imagine there would be a mini war in Brussels if the immediate above judgement was allowed, as no one voted for this via the recent treaty nor was this previous understanding of the law. The usual "unelected" dictators etc.....
Strictly from the small facts you present, I assume that you had some sort of legal status in the UK. When you say UK do you mean mainland Britian or Northern Ireland?
How did the children get Irish citizenship? What was / is the non EU parent's legal status in Ireland and / or the UK?
You say that they are Irish Citizens? You would need to rely on Surinedeer Singh.
THe matters are up in the air, to be honest, so you should