HC Deb 22 July 1890 vol 347 cc510-1
MR. ROCHE (Galway, E.)

I beg to ask the Attorney General for Ireland whether the Government intend to pay the expense of defending the constables against whom Mr. Fahy and Morrissey obtained decrees for £5 and £2 at last Quarter Sessions held at Gort for false arrest; also the cost of appeal which was heard before Judge O'Brien at Galway Assizes, he confirming the County Court Judge's decree, with costs; and whether he will state what course he will adopt in reference to the conduct of the constables?

MR. MADDEN

I must ask the hon. Gentleman to postpone the question. I have not received the information that will enable me to answer it.

MR. SEXTON

As the Chief Secretary is in his place, I will ask him if he is aware that the appeal has been dismissed. The fact is, that two constables arrested these two men, dragged them through the streets, kept them all night in custody, and then brought them before the Magistrates, who dismissed the case. An appeal against the decision of the County Court Judge's decree has now been dismissed by the Judge of Assize, and, as these men have acted on the advice of the right hon. Gentleman and brought their case before a legal tribunal, I wish to know what steps he proposes to take in the matter?

THE CHIEF SECRETARY FOR IRELAND (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR,) Manchester, E.

I will telegraph for information.