HC Deb 12 February 1847 vol 89 cc1230-1
MR. SMITH O'BRIEN

begged to ask the right hon. Gentleman the Secretary for Ireland, whether his attention had been called to the circumstance, that not less than fifteen coroners' inquests had been held in Bantry upon persons whose death was attributed to starvation, while in Killybegs not less than forty persons had fallen victims to famine?

MR. LABOUCHERE

The state of destitution in that part of Ireland is most severe; and I am afraid many instances have occurred of the loss of human life in consequence.

MR. SMITH O'BRIEN

Are there no measures of immediate relief applicable to such cases?

MR. LABOUCHERE

I have no doubt the attention of the Irish Government has been specially called to the subject. In writing a few days ago to the Under Secretary for Ireland, I adverted to it; but have no doubt that, without any such suggestion, the attention of the Irish Government has been directed to what is going on.

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