26. Mr. NUGENTasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland when it is proposed to fill the vacancy in the Irish Land Commission created by the death of the Right Hon. W. F. Bailey, Estates Commissioner; whether it was provided that there should be at least three such Commissioners; whether he is aware of the fact that neither of the two remaining Commissioners is a Catholic; whether the vacancy created by the resignation of Mr. Beard, was immediately filled by the appointment of Mr. Greene, and that created by the retirement of Mr. Alexander, solicitor, by the appointment of Mr. Hare; and if he will state why a Catholic was not eligible for either of these appointments?
§ Mr. DUKEThe vacancy in the Commission will be filled in due course. The vacancies in question on the staff of the Commission were filled by promotion in the office in the manner mentioned. There is no disqualification on grounds of religion either in law or, so far as I am concerned, in practice.
§ Mr. DEVLINI hope the practice will be changed.