§ MR. MELDONasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, Why the drainage works commenced with the object of relieving the prevalent distress at Rathangan, in the county Kildare, have been discontinued; what are the reasons which induced the Board of Works to stop such works, and if steps will be taken to have the drainage works recommenced; and, whether the sudden stoppage of the works has not increased 1097 the distress, and what steps will be taken to give employment to those who are thus thrown out of work?
§ THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. GIBSON)Sir, in the absence of the Chief Secretary for Ireland, I will answer the Question. Notice of it only appeared on the Paper this morning, and there has not been the requisite time for inquiries. With regard to the first part, I am not in a position to say what are the reasons which actuated the Board of Works to discontinue the drainage works; but I have no doubt they had some reasons, which appeared to the Board to be sufficient.