asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he has considered the report of his inspector on the recent inquiry into the discharge of their duties by the Laoighis County Council and whether it is his intention to dissolve the Council.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Laoighis Co. Council Inquiry.
The inquiry has only recently been concluded and the report of the inspector has not yet been received.
Can the Minister give any information which will save trouble to prospective candidates, if, in fact, the elections will not be held?
Is it a fact that the demand made on behalf of the local ratepayers for this sworn inquiry was for the purpose of investigating certain allegations made against the administration of the board of health and that this inquiry commenced on 10/1/34, was subsequently adjourned on two occasions and concluded nearly three weeks ago? Has the Minister received any report from his inspector dealing with the serious allegations made against this body or has he even asked for an interim report on the policy issue as to whether a case has been made for the abolition of this board?
Will the Minister read also Deputy Davin's evidence before the inquiry?
I gave no evidence.
I cannot forecast a decision. All I can say is that I closely followed the evidence as it was published in the newspapers, and, judging from that, it appears probable that the Council will be dissolved and that the elections will not be held. I do not, however, want to make any decision in advance. I have not yet got the report. I have read only the proceedings as published and I do know that, as Deputy Davin says, the inquiry has been very prolonged. It was delayed on account of the serious illness of one of the officials chiefly concerned. The inspector and the auditors responsible were very much delayed in their work by the illness of that official. Not having the report, but, judging from what I have read, I believe the situation of the Council is such that serious action will have to be taken.
Might I respectfully suggest to the Minister that he should ask for the production of an interim report dealing with the board of health and would he bear in mind, when considering the matter, whether it is permissible or possible for members of a board of health appointed by a county council, who are found to have acted illegally, in a corrupt manner or contrary to the regulations, to act or remain as members of the parent body?
Question No. 2.
Would Deputy Minch withdraw that statement of his? It is incorrect.
Certainly not.
If all your statements are as correct as that, there is nothing correct in what you say.
Deputy Davin went down there and was cross-examined and made a proper ass of himself.