§ MR. O'SULLIVANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, If he is aware that a practice exists in several counties and towns in Ireland of sheriffs and their deputies over holding for a considerable time, in their own hands, large sums of money belonging to traders, which they (the sheriffs) levied by execution or decree, in place of handing it over to those entitled to same; and, if so, whether the Government will take any steps to prevent these officials from continuing this practice?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHIn answer to the Question, I have to state that it is possible this practice may exist in some counties, but I have not been able to discover that it prevails to any extent; and, if it did, as the sheriffs and sub-sheriffs are not under the control of the Executive Government, it would not be a matter in which the Executive Government could interfere. If the creditors of persons interested in these funds have any cause to complain they have their remedy by action at law against the sheriffs.