§ MR. M'CARTAN (Down, S.)asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether he is aware that the barrack of the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifle Brigade at Newtownards has been condemned by medical gentlemen and by officers as unhealthy, and totally unsuited to the requirements of the men; and, whether, having regard to the health, comfort, and convenience of the men, he will take steps to have the necessary alterations made or a suitable house built?
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL OF ORDNANCE (Mr. NORTHCOTE)(who replied) said (Exeter)the barracks at Newtownards have not been condemned as unhealthy, though they have been complained of as inconvenient for officers in the matter of accommodation. The permanent staff do not live in the barracks. If any questions of large structural alterations or new buildings are 1530 raised by the Local Authorities they will be considered when next year's Estimates are framed.