§ DR. ROBERT AMBROSE (Mayo, W.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, with reference to the structural improvements in Westport Workhouse, if he can state what improvements are urgently required, and what is the estimated cost of such improvements; and, if he will suggest that, considering the poor state of 204 the ratepayers, only the most urgent improvements will be undertaken at present?
§ MR. GERALD BALFOURThe Local Government Board now state it is not intended to require the Guardians at present to undertake any structural alterations in the workhouse, but that they will ask the Guardians to carry out certain improvements which are urgently needed for the comfort of the sick and infirm inmates, such as a supply of bedsteads and mattresses, better sanitary appliances, etc., all of which have been recommended by the medical officer of the workhouse. It is believed that the cost of these improvements will not be large.