HC Deb 01 June 1916 vol 82 c2901
58. Mr. FLAVIN

asked the Prime Minister whether he has received a resolution, unanimously passed by the Kerry County Council at their meeting on 4th May, requesting the Government to put the local taxation account on a sound financial position; and whether he will take steps to accede to the request of the Kerry County Council?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have received a copy of the resolution referred to. The abatements made in recent years of the sums payable out of the Local Taxaton (Ireland) Account have been made pursuant to Sub-section (5) of Section 58 of the Local Government (Ireland) Act, 1898, and I am advised that I ought not to hold out any hope of increasing the amount paid to the credit of the account.

Mr. FLAVIN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that owing to the increased burden of taxation the ratepayers of Kerry, who are mainly composed of very small farmers, are in a very serious position, unless the Government do something to place the local taxation account on a sound financial basis?

The PRIME MINISTER

Naturally I am not familiar with the local conditions, but I will make inquiries.

Mr. FLAVIN

Thank you.