§ MR. SHEEHAN (Cork Co., Mid.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether his attention has been drawn to the proceedings at the recent sittings of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council where appeals under the Labourers Acts were upheld because, as alleged, the Rural District Councils had not made out their case: and can he explain on what grounds this order is reversed by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council; and why the petitioners are not required to prove their appeal.
§ MR. WYNDHAMThe petitions against nine cottages were upheld as stated, but in eight cases the petitions were dismissed, and in thirty-one others settlements were effected between the parties. The Judicial Committee invariably hears the evidence of the petitioners against a scheme, and of the District Council in support. The Committee, in allowing or disallowing an application, acts in pursuance of its statutory powers and does not announce reasons for its decisions.
§ MR. SHEEHANIs it not the fact that the Committee, in giving judgment, said the Rural District Councils had not made out their case?
§ MR. WYNDHAMI believe the proceedings were public. I am told the Committee gave no reasons.
§ MR. THOMAS O'DONNELLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Irish labourers have no representation on the Privy Council, which is the ultimate court of appeal?
§ [No answer was returned.]