HC Deb 12 August 1878 vol 242 cc1762-3
MR. O'SHAUGHNESSY

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, If it be true that it is laid down as a general rule that no appointment to a resident magistracy in Ireland is made of persons over forty years of age; if so, how long this rule has been in force?

MR. J. LOWTHER

It is not the case that any general rule has been laid down on this subject; but it is the opinion of the Lord Lieutenant that, generally speaking, it is not desirable to appoint gentlemen who exceed the age of 40 years.