§ MR. MOORE (Armagh, N.)To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland by whom the recent examinations for promotion in the Royal Irish Constabulary was held for four vacancies for sergeants promotion to head constables; whether the four sergeants who obtained the highest marks were promoted, or were any of those who obtained higher marks than those promoted passed over; and, if so, for what reason were they so passed over; and, having regard to the dissatisfaction in the service at these promotions, will he have an inquiry into all the circumstances.
(Answered by Mr. Birrell.) The competitive examination in question was conducted by a county inspector and two district inspectors nominated by the Inspector-General for the purpose. The names of the four sergeants who obtained the highest marks were published to the force in a circular, which stated that these men would be promoted in their turn with sergeants who had passed for promotion at non-competitive examinations held under the ordinary regulations. The four sergeants referred to have not yet been promoted, but will be promoted when their turn comes. The Inspector-General is not aware of any dissatisfaction in respect of these promotions, as to which the regular practice is being followed. No necessity for an inquiry has been shown.