§ MR. FIELDTo ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he will explain why the Irish Local Government Board did not afford to Irish firms the opportunity of tendering for the work at Dublin Castle arising from the King's visit, and why workmen and materials were imported; and whether he can state the amount of money to be so expended.
(Answered by Mr. Elliot.) The erection of a temporary building at Dublin Castle was entrusted to a London firm for reasons of urgency, as constant reference has to be made to the authorities at Buckingham Palace. The whole of the timber required for the building is supplied by a Dublin firm, and many Irish workmen are employed. Where reasons of urgency do not apply, the work in connection with the King's visit has been given to Irish contractors. I am unable to say the exact sum which will be so expended.