§ MR. W. J. CORBET (Wicklow, E.)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, in view of the anxiety expressed by Government to promote the material prosperity of the country, What steps are intended to be taken to develop the mining industries of Ireland, especially in the County of Wicklow, where gold has been found, and where iron, lead, and copper ores are known to exist extensively?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY (Sir MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH) (Bristol, W.)The particular matters on which I have expressed my anxiety to promote the material prosperity of Ireland are those which have been referred to the Royal Commission—namely, arterial drainage, deep-sea fisheries, and improved means of communication. I do not see what can be done to develop the mining industry, especially having regard to the present low prices of the principal minerals.