HC Deb 13 March 1890 vol 342 cc700-1
DR. TANNER (Cork, Mid)

I beg to ask the Attorney General for Ireland if it is a fact that, on Wednesday evening last the 5th instant, Captain Richard Tonson Rye, D.L., of Rye Court, Crooks town, County Cork, deliberately tired two shots at, and wounded, a labourer and tenant of his named Corcoran, who was taking a short cut home across a field in the demesne; whether he is aware that Corcoran has deposed that Captain Rye exclaimed, on seeing Corcoran, "By—I'll shoot you," and tired twice as alleged; whether Captain live is still at large, and has he been deprived of his firearms; and whether any steps will be taken to bring Captain Rye to justice for the alleged outrage? I also wish to know if it is a fact that the labourer Corcoran, who was shot by Captain Rye, D.L., was visited twice by the police from Castlemore barrack; if it is true that District Inspector St. George, of Ballincollig, advised Corcoran to settle quietly with Captain Rye; whether it is correct, as stated, that Corcoran had received 12 grains of shot in the back and knee on the occasion in question; and whether any police inquiry will be made into the action of the District Inspector?

MR. MADDEN

The Constabulary authorities report that District Inspector St. George visited the man to make the usual inquiries in regard to the alleged firing at him. The District Inspector says it is not the case that he advised the man to settle quietly with Captain Rye. Corcoran from time to time declined to make an information, but has finally consented to do so, and the matter will be investigated at Petty Sessions on the 18tb inst.

DR. TANNER

Is it not the fact that this man was tired at twice by Captain Rye, a Deputy Lieutenant of the County of Cork? Has he been deprived of the right to use firearms; and is not this the second occasion on which he has so offended?

MR. MADDEN

I must refrain from entering into details, as the matter is the subject of inquiry by the Petty Sessions.

DR. TANNER

Will the right hon. Gentleman recommend something in the nature of a close time for the tenant farmers?

[No reply.]