HC Deb 15 May 1882 vol 269 cc658-9
MR. REDMOND

asked Mr. Attorney General for Ireland, Whether his attention has been called to the following statement in the "Daily News" of May 3rd:— A very curious and high-handed proceeding is reported from Killarney. It is stated that while the people were expressing their joy at the release of Mr. Parnell, the police, acting on the authority of Captain Plunkett, R.M. dispersed them with their batons, and destroyed the big drum of the local band, which was playing at the time; and, whether he has taken any steps to prevent any such interference with the people in the future?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. W. M. JOHNSON)

Sir, on the night of the 2nd instant a riotous and disorderly mob, accompanied by two bands, paraded the streets of Killarney, and a hostile feeling was exhibited towards the persons who did not illuminate their houses on the occasion. The magistrate responsible for the preservation of the peace of the town ordered the police to call upon the bands to retire and the mob to disperse. One of the bands very properly did retire quietly; but the other band rushed forward, and the police were pelted with stones, and in quelling the disturbance and clearing the streets the drum was broken. The lawful playing of bands is not to be interfered with; but, under the circumstances of this case, the Government do not propose to take any further steps in the matter. It is the duty of all magistrates to keep the peace of the town, and, of course, the law must be obeyed.

MR. REDMOND

Could the right hon. and learned Gentleman say if any of the people were seriously injured by the police using their batons upon them?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. W. M. JOHNSON)

I have no information as to that; but I am informed the police were pelted with stones by the people.