HC Deb 30 July 1913 vol 56 cc532-3
66. Mr. GEORGE ROBERTS

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that, although the Urban District Councils of Longford, Granard, and Cavan have appointed inspectors to see that the provisions of the Shops Act are observed, in reality nothing is being done, and in a great many cases the Act is being completely ignored; and whether he will take steps to ascertain definitely whether these inspectors are performing their duty?

The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Birrell)

I am aware that the Urban District Councils of Longford and Granard have been very dilatory in putting the provisions of the Shops Act into force within their respective districts. The Granard Urban District Council have been informed that unless the Act is put in force by their inspector proceedings will be taken against the council which, it is hoped, will have the effect of enforcing compliance with the Act. As regards Longford a resolution was recently passed by the council directing the inspector to carry out the provisions of the Act. Inquiries are being made with regard to the action of the Cavan Urban Council.