§ Mr. FIELDasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that a deputation from South Dublin interviewed the Local Government Board recently respecting the disqualification of old age pensioners in the union; whether he is aware that the guardians are of opinion that the word "chronic" does not apply legally to those cases; whether he is aware that dissatisfaction exists amongst the ratepayers on this matter; and what action he proposes to take in the matter.
§ Mr. SAMUELSThe answer to the first paragraph of the question is in the affirmative. My right hon. Friend cannot accept the view of the guardians of the South Dublin Union, and the practice of the Local Government Board is the same as is adopted by the English Local Government Board. It is understood that some dissatisfaction exists, but my right hon. Friend can hold out no hope of an alteration in the existing practice which could only be effected by legislation.