§ Mr. JOHN O'CONNORasked what is the custom as to the appointment of shorthand writers at inquiries under the Public Health Act in Ireland; is there any objection to the appointment of shorthand writers resident in districts where such inquiries may be held; and. if so, what are the objections; is it a rule, under the Labourers (Ireland) Orders of 1906, to direct that local shorthand writers should be employed at inquiries under the Labourers' Acts; and, if so, would specific instructions be given to do likewise at inquiries under the Public Health Act?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe responsibility for the selection of shorthand writers at inquiries rests with the inspector in each case, whether the inquiry is held under the170W Labourers' Acts or the Public Health Acts. There is no objection to the appointment of competent local shorthand writers. There is no rule under the Labourers' (Ireland) Order of 1906 directing that local shorthand writers shall be employed at Labourers' Acts inquiries. The Order merely provides that if a person other than a local man is employed, travelling expenses can only be allowed as from the nearest place at which the services of a competent notetaker might have been obtained.