HC Deb 26 October 1916 vol 86 cc1319-20
23. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he will have a Report made as to the means of developing industries in West Clare and of opening up productive works as, for instance, the reclamation of Poulnasherry Bay and the deepening of the inner river harbour of Kilrush?

Mr. DUKE

The circumstances of West Clare are well known in the Irish Office. Some years ago the Congested Districts Board considered carefully the proposal as to Poulnasherry reclamation, but decided against taking any action. Expenditure for harbour works such as Kilrush has had to be suspended during the War. The Board inform me that they would be glad to receive and would carefully consider suggestions as regards the development of industries other than engineering works.

Mr. LYNCH

Will the right hon. Gentleman look into any well-considered practical proposal which I can put before him, if I can show that the work will be productive?

Mr. DUKE

It is my business, as the hon. Member knows, to investigate any matter of that kind that is brought to my knowledge, but I am bound to have the assistance of experienced people like members of the Congested Districts Board.