HC Deb 28 March 1867 vol 186 cc796-8

Order for Second Reading read.

LORD NAAS

moved the second reading of this Bill. He said, that its objects were to correct certain defects in the Act by which bridges in Ireland were now erected and managed. Powers were given by this Bill for the purchase of private rights, tolls, ferries, and the like. The time, too, for the repayment of money was extended, and among other powers the grand juries were authorized to apportion the cost of the bridges according to the benefits conferred upon the respective districts. A power of appeal was given, and a clause was inserted by which it was provided that certain proceedings already taken by the grand juries of Wexford and Kilkenny, in reference to the New Ross Bridge, should remain as substantial proceeding taken under the Bill.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."—(Lord Naas.)

MR. SYNAN

said, he thought some of the provisions of the Bill equitable enough; but he objected to the property being vested in the Commissioners of Works instead of in the grand juries, by whom the expenses would be defrayed.

MR. LAWSON

said, he thought that the House had not received a satisfactory explanation of the Bill, which, involving, as it did, large taxing powers and powers for the compulsory purchase of private property, was one of great importance.

MR. AGAR-ELLIS

said, he hoped that the second reading of what was a most important Bill would not be opposed.

MR. CHILDERS

said, he wished to inquire whether the Secretary to the Treasury had seen the Bill, and whether he knew that it affected his Department? He protested against the Treasury being made any further responsible for carrying out local works in Ireland, which should be done by the local authorities.

MR. HUNT

said, he was not aware that any clause in the Bill affected the Treasury.

SIR COLMAN O'LOGHLEN

said, that after the statement of the Secretary to the Treasury, the debate ought to be adjourned. The Bill had only been delivered that morning, and hon. Members had not had time to consider it. He moved that the debate be adjourned.

COLONEL TOTTENHAM

said, he must oppose the Motion. The Bill was one of great emergency, and if there was any objection to its details they could be considered in Committee.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Debate be now adjourned."—(Sir Colman O'Loghlen.)

LORD NAAS

said, he hoped the House would give the Bill a second reading. He would promise ample opportunity to hon. Members for making Amendments upon a future stage of the Bill. With regard to what had been said with respect to the Treasury, the Bill threw no further liability on the Treasury beyond what was imposed by the 3 & 4 Will. IV.

Motion, by leave, withdrawn.

Main Question put, and agreed to.

Bill read a second time, and committed for Thursday next.