HC Deb 29 August 1893 vol 16 cc1349-50
MR. COLLERY (Sligo, N.)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that the occupier of the grounds covered by the Collooney and Claremorris Railway voluntarily surrendered their lauds nearly three years ago in order to facilitate the construction of the railway as a relief works; that agreements were at that time entered into between the Board of Works and the occupiers saving the rights of the latter under "The Railway (Ireland) Act, 1851," and providing that they should in due course receive full legal compensation which would include a proper abatement of rent; whether, beyond a payment of account made when the lauds were surrendered, any further compensation has since been paid; and whether any steps have yet been taken to keep faith with the people, and to give them the full compensation and abatements to which they are entitled?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

The occupiers gave up their lands for the purposes stated, on being paid what the valuers then appointed considered they were entitled to, without prejudice to their rights under the Act of 1851 quoted. To appoint an arbitrator under that Act, the Waterford and Limerick Company have to lodge plans and schedules and apply to the Board of Works, and this they are now almost in a position to do. The Board have done everything in their power to expedite the appointment of an arbitrator, and will see that it is done; and every occupier will have an opportunity of going before the arbitrator to claim further compensation, and such abatement in rent as the arbitrator may award and direct.

MR. CLANCY (Dublin Co., N.)

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider three years a reasonable period to allow the work to be done?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

I think it is a long time.

MR. SEXTON (Kerry, N.)

What has caused the delay in the appointment of the arbitrator?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

I believe the delay has been on the part of the Railway Company in preparing the Schedule.

MR. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick's)

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to compel the Railway Company to do its duty?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

I cannot take steps to coerce the Railway Company. The hon. Gentleman had better put that question to the Board of Trade.

MR. FIELD

I will ask it of the President of the Board of Trade.