§ MR. EWARTasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, If he is aware that the schooner "Wave," from Gloucester, with a cargo of prepared timber and building materials, for the Church of Ireland Hall at Queen's College, Cork, has now lain at the Quay in Cork for three weeks unloaded because the mob by threats frighten away any labourers who begin to unload as well as carters who desire to draw away the goods; whether a guard of police has to be kept on board day and night for protection thereof; and, whether the Government intends to take any steps to enable the owners to enjoy their lawful and Constitutional rights?
§ MR. W. E. FORSTERsaid, the case as stated by the hon. Member was correct; but, at the present moment, the vessel was being unloaded and its cargo transported to its destination.
§ MR. HEALYasked if military waggons were being employed in the unloading of the vessel; and what was the reason of this assistance being given to a private individual?
§ MR. W. E. FORSTERsaid, it was quite true that military waggons were being employed. It was thought absolutely necessary, in order to complete the work as quickly as possible and to prevent a serious breach of the peace.
§ MR. W. E. FORSTERsaid, the answer would depend on what means were thought necessary to avoid a breach of the peace.