§ DR. TANNER (Cork Co., Mid)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether it was a fact, as reported in the morning papers, that in consequence of a public-house brawl which took place last night at Bally-poreen the police intervened and subsequently fired on the people; and whether it was a fact that they fired; and, if so, for what reason this further step was taken in a village within five miles of Mitchelstown?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR) (Manchester, E.)It is a fact that the police fired; but whether, under the circumstances, it is a fact that they fired on the people I leave the House to judge. I will simply state the facts. An attack was made at Bally-poreen on a patrol of two policemen by nine men. One of the police was felled to the ground by the blow of a stone which was thrown at him by a man who was some 10 yards distant. This man and another ran at the constable, who was lying on the ground, with the apparent intention of kicking him while down. The constable fired two revolver shots at them, when they all ran away except one (Baldwin), who was arrested by the second policeman.
§ DR. TANNERThis is a telegraphic despatch. How does it come to pass that the right hon. Gentleman is able to give such accurate information upon certain Questions, while he declines to give us any information upon others?
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order!