MR. PATRICK O'BRIENOn behalf of the hon. Member for the St. Patrick Division of Dublin, I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether the disease of pink eye has been introduced into Ireland by the importation of foreign horses, and whether he will cause inquiries to be made; and whether any steps have been taken by the authorities to cope with this outbreak and to prevent the spread and assist in the cure of this epidemic.
§ THE VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOR IRELAND (Mr. PLUNKETT,) Dublin County, S.The disease known as pink eye has existed in Ireland for a considerable period, and the disease also exists in Great Britain. It has been stated that the outbreak in and about Dublin this season was due to the importation of horses from the United States via Liverpool, but though there is no available evidence that such is the case, inquiries are being pursued in the matter and as to the extent to which it prevails generally. Pink eye is not scheduled as a disease under the Diseases of Animals Acts, and the Veterinary Department has been advised that it would not be expedient, at present, to issue any order on the subject. The disease is engaging the careful attention of the authorities.