§ MR. FLYNN (Cork, N.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether it is intended to supply the Royal Irish Constabulary with a new pattern rifle and bayonet; and, if so, what will be the estimated cost of the change, and from what Vote will it be defrayed; and whether he can say how many changes in the pattern of the Royal Irish Constabulary rifle have been made since the old Enfield rifle was in use.
§ MR. WYNDHAMArrangements are being made to supply the constabulary with Lee-Enfield Cavalry carbines fitted to take sword bayonets, in place of the Martini-Henry carbines at present in use. The cost of the change is estimated at £4,766, which will be borne by the Constabulary Vote. The present is the third change in the pattern of rifle since the old Enfield rifle was adopted.
§ MR. FLYNN?Are these weapons intended for police duties?
§ MR. JOHN REDMOND (Waterford)Have the Irish Government considered the desirability of disarming the force and putting it or the same level as the English police?
§ MR. JOYCE (Limerick)Are you going to issue Mark IV bullets to the police?
§ CAPTAIN DONELAN (Cork County, E.)For what purpose are these arms used?
§ *MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! The original Question was as to the pattern of rifle, and that has been answered. Notice must be given of any other Question.