§ MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W., and Sligo, S.)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether any lives have been lost through the collapse of the Albert Bridge, Belfast, on Wednesday evening last; whether the bridge was thronged at the time of the accident; whether it is true, as reported, that a 1114 gradual sinking of the structure had been observed for the past two or three weeks; whether the Town Council is responsible for having allowed the continuance of a thoroughfare across the bridge weeks after its collapsing condition became apparent; and, how soon an official inquiry will be held?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY (SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH) (Bristol, W.)So far as is known one life was lost through this accident. Fortunately it is not a fact that the bridge was thronged at the time. It is, I understand, true that a gradual sinking had previously been observed; but the immediate collapse of the bridge was not apprehended. I am advised that the question of responsibility is one of law, which must be decided in a Court of Justice, if raised. I am not aware that there is any obligation on the Government to institute an official inquiry; but I shall look further into this matter.