§ MR. LONSDALEI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether his attention has been called to the proceedings at Ardagh on the 24th February, when, at a public demonstration arranged by the local branch of the United Irish League, and attended by a large number of persons, Mr. Patrick Keane, one of the persons who have taken the Crannagh Farm, was denounced by name and the people were advised to boycott him and make it hot for him; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter.
§ MR. BIRRELLMy attention has been called to this matter. The police are in constant attendance at the Crannagh farm, for the protection of Mr. Keane and others who have taken divisions of the land. Steps are being taken for the erection of a police hut on the farm, and the police will take all possible steps to prevent any interference with the persons concerned in the exercise of their legal rights.