HC Deb 18 May 1905 vol 146 cc765-6
MR. LONSDALE (Armagh, Mid.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland what are the circumstances under which an extra force of constabulary has been drafted into the district of Athenry, county Galway.

MR. REDDY

Has the hon. Member got his information from Lord Ashtown?

MR. WALTER LONG

A system of boycotting and intimidation directed against the holders of grazing farms has been in existence for some time past in the Athenry and other districts of the county Galway. The reletting of grazing farms on the eleven months system usually takes place about May 1st, and on the approach of this date intimidation was exercised against these persons in order to compel them not to renew their grazing contracts. A number of outrages were also committed in furtherance of this movement, and, in the circumstances, it was considered necessary to augment the police force stationed in Athenry and other disturbed areas.