§ MR. ARTHUR O'CONNORasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, Whether it is a fact that they have directed the Board of Works in Ireland to realise their securities in several cases in which the Board of Works are mortgagees; and, whether, within the last week, the Board of Works have been instructed to take possession of the Southern Railway, between Thurles and Clonmel, for the purpose of sale?
§ MR. COURTNEYThe Treasury and the Board of Works are endeavouring by all legitimate means to reduce the arrears due on the loans now out to the public. With regard to the Southern Railway, between Thurles and Clonmel, the Board of Works are taking possession with the intention of improving the security in the interests of all parties concerned. There is no fear that the line will be closed.