asked the Minister for Local Government whether it is a fact that the cost of the coal consumed in the Dublin Workhouse for the year 1921 was nearly £12,000, if it is a fact that there is no check on the supplies of coal delivered to the Workhouse, and frequently no written record of orders or receipts, and whether any steps have been taken by him to remedy these abuses?
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. [ ORAL ANSWERS. ] - COAL CONSUMPTION IN DUBLIN WORKHOUSE.
The cost of coal in the Dublin Workhouse in 1921 was approximately as stated.
The quantities of coal delivered to the Workhouse have been suitably verified, but up to the present there has been no check on the supplies distributed to the several departments. The Ministry's General Inspector recently submitted a report on this matter to the Guardians, but it has not yet been published. It indicated gross laxity in the method of distribution, and made suggestions as to future procedure. The Guardians adopted the report in so far as it prescribed the rations of coal and the records to be kept, but they considered that the officials concerned in the report should be given opportunity of refuting the charges made. To meet the wishes of the Guardians the Ministry have ordered a public inquiry into the whole matter. It will take place as soon as the necessary arrangements can be made.