§ 11. Major O'NEILLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland how many houses have been built and in respect of how many have schemes been submitted under the Labourers (Ireland) Acts since 1st September, 1919?
§ Mr. HENRYIt is not possible at present to say how many houses have been completed under the Labourers (Ireland) Acts, since the 1st September, 1919, as the Local Government Board have not yet received this information from the rural district councils. New schemes submitted to the Board since the date mentioned comprise 46 cottages, and 72 plots. In addition there were 206 cottages commenced, but not completed on 31st March, 1919. Further there were 7,401 cottages included in schemes in various stages in progress. Most of these latter schemes were framed before the War, and required careful consideration before being proceeded with. Loans for the purchase of sites for 3,300 of these cottages have been advanced.
§ Major O'NEILLIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the progress that is being made in this important matter, and is he aware that there are a number of labourers throughout Ireland whose housing accommodation is atrocious, and 1388 who are urgently in need of proper housing accommodation?
§ Mr. HENRYI am quite aware of the importance of the question, but my hon. and gallant Friend must recollect that it is the rural district councils who are primarily, and, indeed, entirely, responsible for the erection of labourers' cottages.
§ Captain REDMONDIs the right hon. Gentleman also aware that the county councils of Ulster were the very last to take advantage of these Acts, which their representatives opposed in the House of Commons?