§ MR. DILLON (Mayo, E.)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether his attention has been directed to the proceedings at Fintona Courthouse on Monday last; whether it is true that two police constables swore that Mr. Sproule, J.P., was staggering drunk on the previous night; and, whether the statements sworn to in Court by Mr. Sproule were contradicted on oath by several respectable witnesses; and, if so, whether he will direct the attention of the Lord Chancellor to Mr. Sproule's conduct, or what other course it is intended to take in the matter?
§ THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. HOLMES) (Dublin Uni-972 versity) (who replied) said: I have read a Report of the proceedings at Fintona Courthouse referred to in the Question of the hon. Member. One police constable swore that Mr. Sproule, J.P., was staggering drunk, and another made a remark, but apparently not on oath, to the same effect. Mr. Sproule's statements were contradicted on oath by respectable witnesses. I have forwarded the Report furnished to me to the Lord Chancellor for his consideration.