HC Deb 08 August 1902 vol 112 cc1111-2
MR. NANNETTI (Dublin, College Green)

To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland if he is aware that the proprietor of street cars in Dublin, which have been supplying refreshments to working men in the early mornings, has been fined for causing obstructions in the streets; whether these prosecutions have the sanction of the Irish Executive; whether he will see that the same privileges are granted to these travelling coffee-shops as is allowed in London and other English cities and towns; and, in view of the needs of the working-classes, will he give instructions to the police to stop these prosecutions.

(Answered by Mr. Wyndham.) Proceedings have been instituted against persons in charge of these cars where obstruction of the public thorough fare was caused. There have been three such prosecutions by the police in Dublin. The sanction of the Executive is not required. It is incumbent upon the police to act on occasions of this kind, where obstruction is caused, and they have no dispensing power such as is suggested in the Question. There are several places in close proximity to the public thoroughfares where these cars might be stationed without causing obstruction, and without incurring the risk of prosecutions such as are complained of.