§ SIR THOMAS ESMONDE (Kerry, W.)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the case of Mr. Davy Stephens, of Kingstown; and, if anything can be done to remedy his grievances.
§ MR. HANBURYDavy Stephens was the only vendor of newspapers, etc., admitted on the Carlisle Pier and mail boats for many years. In May last application was made to the Board of Works by the firm of Messrs. Eason for permission to admit one of their employees to the Mail Packet Pier, Kingstown, to sell newspapers, etc. The Board communicated with the City of Dublin Steam Packet Company, whose passengers are mainly concerned, and as it was shown that the increased traffic on the mail steamers called for increased facilities, they gave—in agreement with the company—the permission sought for by Messrs. Eason, but otherwise made no change as regards Stephens. The City of Dublin Steam Packet Company accorded permission to Messrs. Eason to sell newspapers, etc., on their steamers, but Stephens has not been excluded from the steamers.
§ SIR THOMAS. ESMONDEWill the right hon. Gentleman ascertain if the Steam Packet Company will allow Stephens to retain his old position on the gangway of the boats?
§ MR HANBURYI think the only difference is that he had a monopoly before; now he has a competitor.
§ MR. DAVITTIs it not a fact that this picturesque personality has been in this position for the last fifty-two years? Is it not cruel to take it away from him now?
§ MR. HANBURYI believe he has been in the position a long time. I will see if anything more can be done.