§ MR. T. M. HEALY (Longford, N.)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Is it true that John Clarke, of Cornakelly, County Longford, and his wife are at present undergoing a term of imprisonment in Sligo Gaol; when, and by whom, were they committed; what is their offence; and, how long are they to be kept in prison?
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDER SECRETARY (Colonel KING-HARMAN) (Kent, Isle of Thanet)(who replied) said: It is the case that the prisoners referred to are in custody in Sligo Gaol. They were committed on the 23rd of August, 1887, by order of the Land Judges for re-taking forcible possession of their holding after they had been evicted by the Sheriff of Longford. They will be released at the expiration of 12 months from the date of their conviction, or on payment of the rent and costs.
§ MR. T. M. HEALYDoes the order of committal prescribe their release on payment of the rent and costs?
§ COLONEL KING-HARMANI cannot say.
§ MR. T. M. HEALYWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman repeat that portion of his answer which gave the payment of the rent and costs as a condition precedent to the release?
§ COLONEL KING-HARMANThey are committed for contempt of Court.
§ MR. T. M. HEALYWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman repeat the latter part of his answer?
§ COLONEL KING-HARMANI stated that they would be released in 12 months, or on payment of the rent and costs due.
§ MR. T. M. HEALYCan the right hon. and gallant Gentleman state what is the ransom which will procure their release?
§ COLONEL KING-HARMANNo, Sir; certainly not, without Notice.