§ MR. KENNYasked the Secretary to the Treasury, What is the present position of the Clare Slob Lands Reclamation Works, and if any efforts are being made to complete them; if he will state the amount of money advanced by the Irish Board of Works for the purpose of these works, and upon what security was the money originally advanced, and what precautions were taken to insure that it should be fully expended; and, if any rate of interest is chargeable to the persons to whom the original advance was made; if so, whether such interest is still being paid?
§ MR. COURTNEYWith respect to the Clare Slob Lands Reclamation, it is expected the works of embanking will be finished this summer. Every effort is being made to this end, more than 300 men being constantly employed upon them. The sum of £76,226 has been advanced towards them, secured on the improvement itself, and on bonds for due completion to the amount of £90,000, given by persons interested in the scheme. Constant inspections have insured due application of the money. Until the 1177 work is completed, interest at 5 per cent is chargeable on the original advance, and proceedings are being taken to recover it.