HC Deb 12 February 1908 vol 184 cc51-2
MR. JOHN ROCHE

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether his attention has been called to the recent prosecution and conviction, at Athenry petty sessions, of a gamekeeper of Lord Ashtown's for having in his possession a loaded revolver while drunk upon the public street; whether the country has to bear the expense of providing this man with police protection; and what action, if any, the Government intend to take in this case.

MR. BIRRELL

Patrick McDermott, who is a gamekeeper in Lord Ashtown's employment, was recently fined for drunkenness while in possession of a loaded revolver. McDermott receives police protection, but it is provided by the established force and does not involve a charge on the county funds. The man has been punished for his offence, and no further action is called for.

MR. DILLON

Will he be allowed to carry a revolver in the future? Does he require that as he is under police protection?

MR. KILBRIDE

Is this the man whose name was mentioned in the case of Lord Ashtown v. Minnie Walsh?

MR. BIRRELL

I cannot say.

MR. KILBRIDE

Well, he is.