§ Mr. JOHN MURPHYasked whether the Commissioners of National Education have refused to pay fees for Irish to several teachers in the year 1908–9 for small irregularities, such as the marking of rolls and following the programme of 1907–8, while it was quite clear, even on the reports of their own inspectors, that efficient work had been performed; and, if so, whether the Chief Secretary for Ireland can take any steps to enable these teachers to be paid the money earned by them?
§ Mr. CHERRYThe Commissioners of National Education can only pay fees for Irish when the conditions laid down in the rules are complied with. A relaxation of the rules was sanctioned in 1907–8 in certain eases where it was obviously impossible to fulfil all the conditions, or where exceptional circumstances seemed to render it equitable that the fees should be paid in whole or part. No relaxation has been sanctioned as regards the year 1908–9, nor is my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary in a position to promise any such concession.