HC Deb 30 June 1904 vol 137 c173
MR. J. F. X. O'BRIEN (Cork)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether, with a view to arousing a spirit of enterprise in Ireland, he will consider the desirability of putting before the people such object-lessons as a number of small industries in successful operation in various districts; whether he will consider the best means for organising such small industries through the agency of the Agricultural Department; and whether he will take steps to utilise the acquirements of the children about to be trained in technical schools when fit for work, in order to check emigration.

MB. WYNDHAM

The Department, acting in co-operation with local authorities or associations, has been engaged, for some time past, in conducting experiments of the character indicated. For example, shirt-making at Dundalk and Sligo; straw hat making at Wexford; furniture at Athlone; and hosiery at New Ross, Carlow and Cavan, Experiments of a similar character at Bandon and Clonmel are at present under consideration.