HC Deb 13 April 1905 vol 145 cc74-5
* MR. O'MALLEY (Galway, Connemara)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland if he is aware that, in the Clifden Union, many of those destitute persons who are offered one shilling per day on the relief works have to walk several miles to those works, and that, in the case of Turbot Island, such persons are invited to come by boat to the mainland to obtain employment; and whether, in view of these facts and of the inadequacy of the measures adopted for the relief of exceptional distress, he will take some steps by which the remuneration will be increased, and the burden upon the poor ratepayers lightened.

MR. ATKINSON

The guardians selected the most central situations for relief works. It would obviously be impossible to establish works adjacent to the residence of every person requiring relief. In the case of Turbot Island the names of three persons only were submitted for employment. It is not intended to increase the remuneration of the persons employed, or to enlarge the Government contribution of 75 per cent. towards the expenses of the works.

* MR. O'MALLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware some of these men have to walk seven or eight miles to the relief works?

MR. ATKINSON

Yes.

MR. DILLON (Mayo, E.)

When will the Works Bill be brought in so that we may have a discussion on the subject.

MR. ATKINSON

I hope soon after Easter.