HC Deb 02 February 1897 vol 45 cc1036-7
MR. W. O'MALLEY (Galway, Connemara)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (1) whether he is aware that four families, numbering in all 26 souls, are left homeless as the result of evictions in Carne, Connemara, the names being Pat. Mulkerrin, Letterard, seven in family; Widow Folan, Letterard, seven in family; Widow King, Mace, eight in family; and Tom Connelly, Mace, ten in family; that all the belongings of the poor people were carried outside their dwellings, the doors of the houses locked, and no one admitted back as caretakers; (2) whether the relieving officer attended these evictions, and whether he has seen any of these families since and offered them either indoor or outdoor relief; and (3) whether the Local Government Board would issue special instructions to relieving officers in future to attend such evictions and offer relief when necessary?

MR. GERALD BALFOUR

The persons named in the first paragraph were evicted on the 18th January for non-payment of rent. The relieving officer was present on the date specified in the eviction notices, but the evictions did not, however, take place on that date. On application being made to him by the wives of Pat Mulkerrin and Thomas Connelly he offered them relief inside the workhouse. He refused to give them out-door relief as they had cattle, sheep, and potatoes. Neither Mrs. King nor Mrs. Folan has made any application to the relieving officer for relief. As regards the last paragraph, having regard to Sections 2 and 4 of the 11 & 12 Vict., cap. 47, the Local Government Board do not consider any further special instructions are required. I may add that I am informed that Mulkerrin and Mrs. Folan have since been re-instated in their holdings.