HC Deb 07 March 1892 vol 2 cc140-1
MR. BLANE (Armagh, S.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that a number of bandsmen were attacked on 6th January whilst passing between Charlemont and Loughgall, county Armagh; what steps were taken by the Constabulary, 13 of whom were present during the attack, to bring the assailants to justice; whether an investigation has been held; and, if so, how many of the bandsmen have been summoned, and how many of the assailants; whether the names of more than 40 of the assailants, who formed a portion of this attacking mob, were furnished to the police; whether firearms were used during the assault on the bandsmen and their friends; and if the authorities are aware that a similar attack is in contemplation for 17tli March?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. MADDEN,) Dublin University

I beg to answer the question. The Constabulary Authorities report that the proceedings referred to were the result of a disturbance arising from the passing of the band through an Orange locality. Firearms were used, but nobody appears to have been injured thereby, the interference of the police preventing what might have otherwise been serious consequences. Steps were taken to prosecute the more prominent persons on either side; but on the representation of the Magistrates at Petty Sessions that it would conduce more to the peace of the district if the proceedings were not carried further they were dropped. As to the last paragraph of this question, I sincerely hope the anniversary will pass over without any disturbance of the peace.

MR. BLANE

IS the right hon. Gentleman aware that one of the bandsmen has been summoned for carrying arms in a proclaimed district?

MR. MADDEN

That is a different offence altogether.

MR. BLANE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say if any efforts have been made by the police to ascertain if arms were carried by the attacking Orange party?

MR. MADDEN

I hardly think that arises on the question; but if the hon. Member desires further information I will endeavour to procure it.

MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W.)

But surely the offence of having arms in a proclaimed district is as great on the one side as the other?

MR. MADDEN

The question of the hon. Member refers to a different matter. The question on the Paper has reference to prosecutions for assault on the bandsmen.