HC Deb 08 August 1904 vol 139 cc1360-1
MR. SLOAN

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that on Sunday, 31st ultimo, a demonstration of Irish National Foresters was held in Cookstown, that a crowd following the procession used Party expressions, threw stones, and made an unsuccessful attempt to pull down the Union Jack, and that on the return journey of the procession disorderly conduct was carried on, revolver shots were fired, and several persons were assaulted; and, if so, will he say what action, if any, was taken in the matter.

MR. WYNDHAM

I am informed that the Foresters demonstration was orderly and well-conducted and that the persons who created the disturbances complained of were unconnected with that society and were strangers who marched through an Orange quarter. The police acted promptly and with vigour, and it was due to their action that a serious breach of the peace was prevented. Four persons were assaulted, three of them very slightly. No clue to the assailants has so far been obtained, but the police are pursuing their inquiries.