§ MR. LONSDALE (Armagh, Mid.)To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that at the inquiry in September, 1903, when the former clerical manager of the Lislea No. 1 National School (county Armagh) tendered his resignation, the chief inspector stated that he considered the lessee of the school had a right to be appointed as manager; will he say whether the name of the lessee was submitted to the Commissioners; and, if so, what objection have the Commissioners to his appointment; and whether, in view of the fact that there is no probability of a successor to the former clerical manager being appointed to the charge of the congregation with which the school is connected, and that the present temporary manager resides twenty miles distant and cannot exercise effective oversight of the school, the National Commissioners are prepared to consider a further memorial from the parents resident in the district in reference to this matter.
(Answered by Mr. Walter Long.) It transpired at the inquiry mentioned that there was much difference of opinion locally as to the most fitting appointment to be made. Pending the appointment of a new minister of Drumhillery Church, the chief inspector recommended the appointment as temporary manager of the Reverend Mr. Simpson, who appeared to be acceptable to the persons concerned. Mr. Simpson was appointed accordingly. There is no lessee of the school, which is vested in and the property of the Commissioners. The present arrangement as to the managership works satisfactorily.