§ MR. J. DEVLINTo ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of 1087 Ireland whether he is aware that the public abattoir in Belfast is a standing menance to the health of the city; that nine years ago a new abattoir was proposed and a loan of £30,000 for its construction sanctioned by the Local Government Board; but that, notwithstanding this, the corporation have not yet decided upon a site for the new abattoir; and whether, in view of these circum-stances, the Local Government Board proposes to take any action in the matter.
(Answered by Mr. Birrell.) The Belfast Health Commission have reported unfavourably upon the situation of the abattoir and the insufficiency of its accommodation. A loan for a new abattoir was sanctioned nine years ago, but up to the present the corporation have not decided upon a site. The matter is one within the discretion of the corporation, and the Local Government Board have no power to compel them to provide a proper abattoir; but it may perhaps be anticipated that the recommendation of the Commission will induce the corporation to take action in the matter.