§ Mr. MOONEYasked the Chief Secretary with reference to the recent application of the Newry Urban Council for a loan for the purpose of the execution of a scheme for housing of the working classes, when the Local Government Board will give their decision; and whether, in view of the fact that in order that the district may benefit by their share of housing fund next year it will be necessary to borrow the money before the 1st April next, he will urge upon the Local Government Board the necessity of expedition in the matter?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe local inquiry was held in this case less than three weeks ago, and the Minutes of Evidence have only just been received. The inspector will lose no time in sending in his report, and the Council's application will then immediately come before the Local Government Board. Cases such as this, in which there is a possibility of getting a loan contract completed before the 31st of March, are always carefully watched by the Board.