HC Deb 12 June 1907 vol 175 cc1438-9
MR. CHARLES CRAIG

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that 130 sheep and lambs were driven off the farm of Thomas Corcoran, Benmore, county Galway, on 2nd July; that Corcoran took this farm from the Congested districts Board in November, 1906, against the wishes and directions of the Bullaun branch of the United Irish League; and that this fact is attributed as the reason for the outrage; and what steps are being taken.

MR. BIRRELL

On the 3rd instant ninety-three sheep and cattle were driven off Corcoran's farm. The animals were recovered and put back on the farm on the same day. The police have no knowledge that Corcoran took the farm contrary to the wishes of the United Irish League, or that this was the reason for driving off the cattle. The offenders in the case are not known. The police are paying attention to the farm.

MR. CHARLES CRAIG

How many arrests have been made in the area of which this district is the centre?

MR. BIRRELL

I am afraid I cannot say.

MR. T. L. CORBETT

Beyond paying attention to the farm, are the police endeavouring to find the culprits?

MR. BIRRELL

The police are doing their duty.

MR. T. L. CORBETT

I ask whether the police are trying to find the culprits?

MR. BIRRELL

That would be doing their duty.

MR. T. L. CORBETT

I am very glad to hear the right hon. Gentleman say that.