THE MARQUESS OF CLANRICARDEsaid, it was commonly reported in Ireland that the Department of Woods and Forests were about to transfer the whole care and management of the Curragh to the War Office, and there was a very strong feeling upon the subject, for the Irish public seemed to think that if such a transfer were made, that great plain would be greatly damaged. It was certainly announced at the time the military went there that the occupation would not be made permanent; but however that might be, it would be a very serious thing if the whole of the Curragh was handed over to the military authorities and the office of the Ranger abolished. Whether the Crown had a right to dispose of it in that way might be a legal question, but at all events there were considerable interests involved. There had been proprietary common rights in existence for a long period, and at one time as many as 30,000 sheep grazed there, though at present there were scarcely 12,000, if so many. That was no light matter to the farmers of the neighbourhood. He wished then to ask, Whether it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to transfer by lease or otherwise, the Care and Management of the Curragh of Kildare from the office of Woods and Forests to the War Department, and to abolish the Office of Ranger of the Curragh?
EARL DE GREY AND RIPONsaid, that the War Department occupied the Curragh only on the licence of the Woods and Forests; but as considerable difficulties had arisen from that state of things, the Woods and Forests had for some time been anxious to hand over the Curragh, on lease, to the War Office. Of course the Woods and Forests could hand over only 870 that to which they had a legel right. With respect to the position of the Ranger, nothing would be done during the life of the present holder of the office; but upon his death, or on his ceasing to hold the office, it would become a matter of consideration with the Government what should be done. If his noble Friend or any others had any suggestions to offer they would be sure to receive every attention.