§ MR. T. P. O'CONNOR (for Mr. HEALY)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether his attention has been called to the following report in the "Cork Herald:"—
At the last Sneem (county Kerry) Petty Sessions (before Messrs. W. Monsell, R.M. and J. F. Bland), Constable Dwyer charged a man named Martin Noonan with having been drunk and disorderly on the night of the 5th instant:The Chairman said that the magistrates had come to the conclusion of fining the defendant 2s. 6d. and 3s. compensation, in addition to the costs;Noonan (leaving the Court)—I thank your worships and God.Chairman—Bring back that man. Now, Sir, if you don't thank the police too, I will change the ruling, and send you to gaol for a month.Mr. Bland—I don't think he understands what you mean.Mr. Monsell—He does very well, and he must return the police thanks or go to gaol.The defendant then thanked the police, and was discharged.'And, if he has communicated with Mr. Monsell, E.M. as to the language alleged, what notice he has taken of the matter; and, if it is desired, will he grant any inquiry?
§ THE SOLICITOR GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. W. M. JOHNSON)Sir, I have received the following statement on this subject:—
The prisoner was charged with being drunk and disorderly, assaulting the police, and tearing a policeman's tunic. The Bench were sending him to gaol for a month when the police begged him off. The Bench then fined him 10s. for assault, 3s. 6s. compensation for tunic, and 2s. 6d. for being drunk and disorderly. The 871 prisoner, when leaving court, made use of such language respecting the police that he was recalled, and the magistrate said he would be sent to gaol as at first intended. Prisoner then apologized, thanked the police for interfering for him, and was fined only.
§ MR. FINIGANasked whether a Judge could alter a sentence after he had given it?
§ THE SOLICITOR GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. W. M. JOHNSON)He cannot; but in this case the sentence was not recorded, and, therefore, had not been definitely pronounced.