§ Mr. SCANLANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland what are the Government's intentions with regard to the development of the Arigna coal mines; and whether the Government are prepared to construct a line of railway connecting Arigna with Collooney or to give powers and facilities to any company which is willing to construct and work the said railway and develop the mines?
§ Mr. DUKEProvisional sanction has been given for the construction of a short line of light railway which would connect the Anigna mines with the Cavan and Leitrim Railway. There is at present a difficulty in obtaining rails which I hope may be overcome. If the hon. Member has in view a contractor who possesses the means of carrying out this work I shall be glad if he will give me any information he can on the subject, as I am anxious that the necessary works shall be carried out. I see no possibility of the construction of a railway from Arigna to Collooney during the War.