HC Deb 03 April 1879 vol 245 cc267-8
MR. PARNELL

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, If his attention has been called to an article in the "Freeman's Journal" of the 3rd March, complaining of the mode of conveying fever and smallpox patients from the country districts to the workhouse hospital at Baltinglass; and, whether the mode adopted, viz., conveyance on open cars, is not a violation of the provisions of section 140 of "The Public Health (Ireland) Act, 1878;" and, if so, whether the Local Government Board will give directions to the guardians of the Baltinglass Union to carry out the provisions of that section?

MR. J. LOWTHER

Sir, my attention has been called to this matter, and the practice referred to certainly appears very objectionable. I am glad, however, to find that the Guardians have taken steps for purchasing two vans for the purpose.

MR. PARNELL

asked the right hon. Gentleman, Whether horses have been purchased to draw the vans?

MR. J. LOWTHER

No, Sir, they have not purchased any horses; but I understand they have made arrangements for hiring them when required.