§ Mr. HAZLETONasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether members of the Dublin Metropolitan Police Force are permitted by their authorities, in case of illness, to select their own hospitals; whether this practice has been found to be prejudicial to the public service; whether he is aware 617 that the Royal Irish Constabulary object to be sent compulsorily for treatment to Steeven's Hospital; and whether, in view of the fact that faith is a large factor towards recovery, especially in serious illness, orders will be issued giving the Royal Irish Constabulary a choice in the selection of hospitals?
§ Mr. BIRRELLIn case of illness the men of the Dublin Metropolitan Police are generally allowed to select the hospital to which they wish to be sent, and this practice has not been found to be prejudicial to the public service. I am not aware that the Royal Irish Constabulary object to be sent compulsorily to Steeven's Hospital, and the constabulary authorities see no reason for changing the existing practice, which has worked well and harmoniously for many years.