HC Deb 03 May 1906 vol 156 cc738-9
MR. MEEHAN

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that Head Constable Spence, stationer) at Abbeyleix, Queen's County, is engaged in promoting a sect which is giving offence to both Catholic and Protestant people in the district; and that he attends constantly at a house at Tullyroe, adjacent to Abbeyleix, for the purpose of preaching and otherwise spending his time promoting his views; whether he will take steps to oblige this policeman to give his time to his duties for which he is paid by the public, and is he aware that this head constable so arranges the discipline and hours of duty for the Catholic constables as to prevent them from attending mass on Catholic holy days of obligation.

MR. BRYCE

It would appear that the hon. Member has been misinformed. I have referred this Question to the Inspector-General of the Royal Irish Constabulary, who informs me, on the authority of the local district inspector, that there is no foundation for any of the statements contained in the Question.

MR. MEEHAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman order an independent inquiry? I can assure the right hon. Gentleman from personal inquiry his information is wrong.

MR. BRYCE

I think the answer of the officer is entitled to some respect as first-hand evidence.

MR. JOHN REDMOND (Waterford)

In view of the fact that there is the personal denial of the constable for a contrary statement by the Member for the Division, cannot the right hon. Gentleman further inquire?

MR. BRYCE

I will make any inquiry that may be wished, but, judging from the information which has reached me, I do not think the matter is one on which there can be much doubt.