HC Deb 10 September 1886 vol 309 cc16-7
MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W., and Sligo, S.)

asked the Secretary to the Treasury, What was the date appointed by contract for the completion of the pier at Enniscrorie, county Sligo; whether complaints have been made by the fishermen of the district as to loss and suffering caused to them by the delay; and, what steps will be taken to secure the prompt completion of the work?

THE SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY (Mr. JACKSON) (Leeds, N.)

, in reply, said, the contract for the completion of this pier was dated October last. He was not aware that any former complaints had been made up to date. He was informed that the delay had been caused by the bad weather. The contract would be completed as quickly as possible. He had caused a letter to be written calling special attention to the matter.

MR. SEXTON

Does the hon. Gentleman mean the House to understand that there has been bad weather all the time since last October; and will the Government take steps to exact from the contractor the penalties for default in this matter?

MR. JACKSON

said, the question of exacting of penalties was a question which would have to be considered if it was thought necessary to do so. He supposed these penalties would be exacted if the default was due to causes over which the contractor had complete control; but he had been told that the delay had been due to the prevalence of difficulties over which he had not con- trol. He would make further inquiry into the matter.

MR. P. M'DONALD (Sligo, N.)

May I ask the hon. Gentleman if he can say when the work is likely to be completed?

MR. JACKSON

I have no information as to that. It does not appear in the Question.