. As the New Year opens, the clouds on the
Irish horizon seem to be diminishing, and as far as it is ever possible to be optimistic in Irish affairs there would appear to be some justification for such an attitude of mind. The Free State Government is hard at work putting its house in order, and a policy of retrenchment has been embarked upon. The Free State Army has been rapidly reduced to a peace footing, and will consist of 20,000 men instead of 50,000 as heretofore, while the rates of pay of those remaining are also being reduced. This heavy de- mobilization and the release of over 10,000 prisoners will, undoubtedly, put a heavy strain on the Irish labour market and relief work is suggested. It is proposed that the Dail should grant immediately 12,000,000 for emergency work, chiefly on the roads.
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