§ Mr. GINNELLasked the Chief Secretary whether the actuary has yet reported on the Irish Constabulary Force Fund; if so, whether a copy of the Report will be supplied to each pensioners' association which forwarded a memorial calling for the winding-up of the fund; whether the actuary has ascertained the amount of reduction of staff and expenditure in the Constabulary Office, Dublin Castle, which the winding-up of the fund would render possible; whether he is aware that any opposition to the winding-up of the fund is the result of canvassing among the subscribers done by members of that staff whose functions in connection with the fund a winding-up would bring to an end; and whether he is willing to receive a deputation from the All-Ireland committee of subscribers before making his promised statement with reference to this fund?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe actuary has not yet reported upon the question referred to him, but I understand that his investigation has reached an advanced stage and that the Report may be expected shortly. The inspector-general informs me that the suggestion that the opposition to the winding-up of the fund is the result of canvassing the subscribers by members of 2221W the staff of the Constabulary Office is absolutely without foundation. Any communication from-the committee referred to will be carefully considered, but no useful purpose would be served by receiving a deputation on the subject.