§ Mr. FRANCIS MEEHANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that the colliery board of the Arigna coal mines, county Leitrim, have threatened to close the mines; and whether, having regard to the exceedingly high prices of English and Scotch coal and the likelihood of a famine for want of fuel in Ireland during the coming winter and the want of employment in the district, inquiries will be made and steps taken to prevent the closing of these mines?>
§ Mr. BIRRELLI am not aware that the Arigna Colliery Board have threatened to close down the mines, but I understand 509W that certain questions have arisen in regard to their management which it is suggested might lead to that result. I do not think that I can usefully intervene in the matter.