MR. O'BEIENasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether it is true that Sub-Constables Burke and Mulholland, on 29th April, tore down from the pillars of Toames Chapel gate, in the parish of Kilmichael, county Cork, a placard, of which the following is a copy:—
Irish National League. A Public Meeting to establish a branch of the Irish National League will be heldon Sunday, May 6th, 1883, at 2 o'clock, at Toames Chapel. Deputations from Dublin and Cork will attend. Irishmen of all classes are invited to co-operate in a movement to save the Irish Race from death and expatriation; to revive and encourage the Industries of the Country: to secure fair wages and cleanly accommodation to the Irish Labourer; to the Irish Farmer the full fruits of his Industry; and to the Irish people the right to make their own laws in a Native Parliament. Prudence, courage, and union were never more necessary for Irishmen than at the present moment. God Save Ireland;and, whether steps will be taken to prosecute Sub-Constables Burke and Mulholland for their conduct, or otherwise express their disapproval?
MR. TEEVELYANThe constables did take down the "placard," which they believed to be of an inflammatory character. In doing so, they took, in my opinion, a wrong view of their duty; and I have directed that they shall be so informed.