§ 23. Mr. DILLONasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that the military have taken possession of all explosives in Ireland used for the purpose of obtaining metal for the roads; that contractors are obliged to make long and expensive journeys to obtain the necessary explosives, and are allowed only 2 lbs. at each application; and whether he will see that some arrangements are made by which the necessary explosives can be obtained without the long and expensive journeys now rendered necessary?
§ Mr. SHORTTIt is the fact that the military authorities have assumed possession of explosives in Ireland as a necessary precaution against their illegal use, and it is imperative in existing circumstances to release the explosives in small quantities only. It is not a fact, however, as alleged, that contractors are limited to 2 lbs. of explosives. In certain cases the amounts may have been so limited as a necessary precaution, but in other cases up to 50 lbs. of explosives have been used on one day under the supervision of the police. The military authorities are, however, prepared to consider applications from road contractors or other persons to 1522 whom explosives are now supplied for any alternative method of supply which would remove or reduce inconvenience without lessening present safeguards.