HC Deb 05 June 1890 vol 345 c66
DR. TANNER

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether it is a fact that the business at the Cork Police Office was seriously delayed and inconvenienced on Wednesday last, the 28th ultimo, in consequence of the absence of any Local or Resident Magistrate; why Mr. Gardiner, who is appointed Resident Magistrate for the district and office in question, failed to put in an appearance; and on how many similar occasions has he been absent during the past six months?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I am informed that there was some delay in holding the Court on the date mentioned, most of the Local Magistrates having been obliged to attend a funeral. The Resident Magistrate was unable to attend, as he was engaged on duty elsewhere. During the past six months the Resident Magistrate has attended the Court (a daily one) on 113 occasions, and has been absent on 44 occasions.

DR. TANNER

I beg to give notice that on the Estimates I shall call attention to the disgraceful conduct of this Magistrate, against whom criminal charges have been recently made, and I shall move that be be suspended from the ranks of the magistracy in Ireland.

MR. FLYNN

IS not the right hon. Gentlemen aware that solicitors have repeatedly complained of the inconvenience caused by the non attendance of magistrates?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I am not aware of any public inconvenience having been caused. No complaints have reached me.

DR. TANNER

Has the right hon. Gentleman made inquiry into the grave charges made against Mr. Gardiner?

MR. SPEAKER

Order, order!