HC Deb 29 September 1909 vol 11 cc1257-8
Mr. ARTHUR LYNCH

asked the Chief Secretary whether he will give information as to the number of police stationed at Kinlea hut, West Clare; the average amount claimed by them for cycle riding and car hire; and the average extra expense per month to the ratepayers involved in this station?

Mr. BIRRELL

I am informed by the Constabulary authorities that there are seven police stationed at Kinlea hut, three of whom are in excess of the fixed strength of free constables. The average claim for cycling at the station is £2 16s. per month, and no car hire is incurred. The charge to the county for the extra men is about £8 12s. per month—that is, about £2 17s. 4d. per man.

Mr. KILBRIDE

May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman hopes to be able to remove these police after the passing of the Irish Land Act?

Mr. BIRRELL

Well, Sir, I hope; but I am sorry to say that my hopes cannot be expressed in language.

Mr. ARTHUR LYNCH

asked the Chief Secretary whether he considers the maintenance of the police station at Kinlea to be now necessary; whether he will state the grounds on which it is maintained; whether he is aware that protests against its continuance have been made in various forms by representative local men; that the irritation caused by the presence of the police tends to produce an effect contrary to the peace of the neighbourhood; and whether he will direct that the instructions establishing the police at Kinlea be rescinded?

Mr. BIRRELL

I am informed by the responsible police authorities that the retention of the police station at Kindea is necessary for the protection of Mr. James Griffin, who was fired at and wounded last year. I am not aware that protests have been made against the continuance or that the presence of the police is a cause of irritation to anyone. I am not prepared to direct their withdrawal.

Mr. ARTHUR LYNCH

Does the right hon. Gentleman keep himself in touch with the state of feeling in Clare?

Mr. BIRRELL

Oh, yes; I receive very frequent communications from county Clare, and generally from all parts of that neighbourhood.