§ Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Chief Secretary whether he can make a statement as to the present assets and liabilities of the Irish Constabulary Force Fund and the Queen's Jubilee Fund, and the persons entitled to share in those funds; and whether he will take immediate steps for the winding up of these funds and the distribution amongst the parties entitled, reserving, if necessary, a portion of the funds to meet future liabilities?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODThe present assets of the Constabulary Force Fund (Benefit Branch) are as follow:—
The liabilities consist of contributions to the families of deceased subscribers. About £13,000 per annum.
- Securities, present value about £180,000.
- Cash balance about £8,000.
- Subscriptions about £3,700 per annum.
The number of subscribers is about 4,100. The parties entitled under Statute to benefit from the fund are the widows and children of deceased subscribers. It is therefore impossible to tell at present who may ultimately become entitled to benefit from the fund. No new subscribers have been admitted since 1883.
The assets of the Queen's Jubilee Fund are as follow:—
- Securities, present value about £12,000.
- Cash balance about £800.
397 orphans of members of the Force and 10 aged women are benefiting from the fund. Proposals for the winding up of this fund by final grants to the persons now benefiting, and for the creation of a fund from which relief may be given in cases arising after disbandment are now under consideration.