asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he will state the intentions of his Department in regard to the disposal of disused workhouses in the Saorstát, and whether he will issue instructions to have protection walls erected around the burial grounds attached to such buildings so as to prevent trespass.

As regards the first part of the Deputy's question I am awaiting the report of the Poor Law Commission. As regards the second part, an order has been issued appointing the council of each county to keep the disused premises in repair and authorising them to appoint a suitable person to act as caretaker.

Is the Minister aware that he informed me here a year ago that this Commission, which he refers to now in his reply, was sitting and that their report was awaited? How long is this Commission going to sit and how long is the Minister going to await a report?

That is a matter for the Commission.

Has the Minister no power over the Commission to force it to deliver its report?

I do not think so.