§ MR. TULLYI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that a number of boards of guardians have passed resolutions approving of having the work under the Franchise Acts and Jurors Acts performed by the clerks of unions, who are in touch with the people; and whether, in view of the amount of the salaries of clerks of unions appointed since 1899, and in order to obtain competent and efficient men for these positions, he will be prepared to deal with the question of the transfer of these duties under The Local Government (Ireland) (No. 2) Bill.
§ MR. WYNDHAMResolutions have been passed, as stated. By the operation of the Local Government Act of 1898, the assessing and levying of rates devolved upon County and Urban District Councils. As a necessary consequence the duties in relation to the registration of electors and to jurors' lists were transferred to the responsible officers of the new rating authorities. These officers are in direct touch with the rate collectors upon whom the successful preparation of the lists largely depends, and who are under the control of the County Council. It is not proposed to disturb the existing arrangements.
§ MR. TULLYIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the duty of checking the rate books is performed by clerks of Unions?
§ MR. WYNDHAMThis matter has been brought before me several times, and I do not propose to make any change.