§ Mr. JOHN O'DONNELLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that a much larger percentage of Protestants has been appointed to positions carrying more ease and emoluments in connection with the Agricultural and Technical Department in Ireland during the administration of the present Vice-President than during the period of his predecessor in that office; and whether, taking into account the fact that religious partiality has been shown by this gentleman in the appointments he has made for years past, the Government will at once take steps to have all positions in connection with that Department filled by competitive examination carried on under the rules of the Civil Service Commissioners, as applied to appointments in connection with nearly all other State institutions?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Vice-President of the Department informs me that there is no foundation for the statement contained in the first paragraph of the question. It is not proposed to make any change in the method of appointment of officers of the Department.