§ DR. TANNER (Cork Co., Mid)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, On whose recommendation was the name of Mr. Jeremiah Hegarty forwarded to the Lord Chancellor of Ireland as being a fit and suitable person to appoint as magistrate in the County of Cork; whether it is a fact that Mr. M'Carthy O'Leary, D. L., Millstreet, County Cork, a local Catholic magistrate, refused to recommend Hegarty for the Commission of the Peace; whether Hegarty stated, on oath, at the trial of Martin Forrest, of Rathcoole, this winter, that he was bailiff to the Cork Defence Union; and, whether he owns and occupies the premises in a part of which it is stated his son sells porter and spirits by retail?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR) (Manchester, E.)I have already stated that Mr. Hegarty was appointed upon the recommendation of the Lieutenant of the County and other local persons of influence. I do not know who may, or may not, have declined to join in the recommendation. I have seen no report of the trial referred to; but, from the nature of the assurances which have been given to me, I cannot think that Mr. Hegarty gave such evidence as is alleged. I do not think it is any part of my duty to make inquiries, or announcements, as to the private property of individuals.
§ MR. CHANCE (Kilkenny, S.)asked, if this was the same Mr. Hegarty who was severely reprimanded by the Master 1785 of the Rolls some time ago for advancing money belonging to a minor under the protection of the Court?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURasked the hon. Member to give Notice of the Question.
§ DR. TANNERasked, whether it was not a fact that Hegarty was held in universal detestation in that part of the county?
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order!
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURdid not answer.