§ MR. S. MORRIS (Kilkenny, S.)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury (1) whether the Waterford Dungarvan and Lismore Railway has been sold to the Rosslare Railway Company, or the Board of Works mortgage transferred to them; and (2) whether any Bill will be introduced relating to the matter?
§ MR. HANBURYThe answer to the first paragraph is No. In answer to the second paragraph, I cannot obviously give such a large pledge as the Question implies. No Bill will be introduced during this Session at any rate.
§ MR. JOHN REDMOND (Waterford)said that, arising out of the right hon. Gentleman's answer, he wished to ask whether the negotiations indicated by the Question were in progress; had the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the resolution passed by the Corporation of Waterford, the Harbour Board, and by all the Public Boards of the City, strongly condemning any sale to the Rosslare Company; and whether he was also aware that public opinion was strongly against the sale?
§ MR. HANBURYOf course I have received these resolutions, and I am aware that some injury will be done to the city of Waterford by the sale of this line, but, of course, we have to consider the interests of the whole district.
§ MR. P. J. POWER (Waterford, E.)If this line be sold, will it be necessary to introduce a Bill upon the subject?
§ MR. HANBURYThat I cannot say, but this company are not the only persons who are concerned.
§ MR. T. LOUGH (Islington, W.)Will the right hon. Gentlman give the House an opportunity of pronouncing upon this sale before it is completed?
§ MR. HANBURYNo, Sir; I do not think so. The only opportunity will arise upon the Board of Works Vote, which must be taken to-morrow. I have already 1357 explained that, in considering this question, the interests of the locality concerned have been taken into consideration, and I will do my very utmost, by consulting the representatives and others, to see that the Interests of the locality are thoroughly protected.