THE O'CONOR DON, in moving for leave to bring in a Bill to amend the Law relating to the Drainage and Improvement of Land in Ireland, briefly explained the object of the measure. The hon. Member said, a difficulty had arisen in carrying out the present law with regard to drainage improvements. It required the assent of two-thirds of the riparian proprietors before any drainage works could be effected. Notices had accordingly to be sent to the proprietors concerned; but a great many of them, from absence and other causes, did not reply to the requests thus made to them. Therefore, it was found extremely difficult, if not impossible, to obtain the necessary assent before commencing the works contemplated. The Bill proposed that, if a majority of the proprietors should assent, the works might be carried out, unless absolute dissent should be expressed by one-third of the number. That was the principal provision of the Bill. The other clauses related to the serving of notices, and to other matters of minor importance.
§ Motion agreed to.
§ Bill to amend the Law relating to the Drainage and Improvement of Land in Ireland, ordered to be brought in by The O'CONOR DON, Mr. BRUEN, Mr. GRAY, and Mr. MACCARTHY.
§ Bill presented, and read the first time. [Bill 227.]