HC Deb 24 November 1884 vol 294 cc229-30
MR. T. A. DICKSON

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, If Captain Whelan has resigned his position of Resident Magistrate?

MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

It appears that the state of Captain Whelan's health has been for some time such as to disable him from the full performance of his duties. He has been granted leave in order that it may be ascertained whether this incapacity is likely to be permanent.

MR. MACARTNEY

Can the right hon. Gentleman state whether Memorials have been sent forward from Lisburn, Dungannon, and other places, signed by clergymen, including Roman Catholic clergymen in Dungannon, praying that Captain Whelan might be retained?

MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

Yes. I am aware that Memorials to that effect have been received and are under consideration; but I have already announced that he is to be removed from Portadown, the state of his health not really enabling him to discharge the duties of his position there, and what I have stated has reference to the question of his being able to discharge his duties as a Resident Magistrate anywhere.

MR. MACARTNEY

But not in consequence of misconduct?

MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

Not directly. There was an occasion recently at Portadown when, probably owing to Captain Whelan's weakness of health, certain occurrences took place which would possibly not have otherwise taken place.

MR. SEXTON

Have the Memorials for his retention come from the Orange Lodges that created the riot?

MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

I have no knowledge of Orange Lodges in the matter.