HC Deb 24 February 1910 vol 14 cc333-4
Captain COOPER

asked the Chief Secretary if he is aware that the executive of the United Irish League, South Louth, recently condemned the action of Mr. John J. McAuley in grazing the Dunlop estate, near Drogheda, and that subsequently on the night of Saturday, 19th inst., his cattle were driven off and recovered three miles away by the police; and if he will state what steps, if any, he intends to take to protect this man in the pursuit of his lawful calling?

Mr. BIRRELL

A report has appeared in the newspapers that a meeting was held on the 13th inst., at which the action of those who took grazing on; the Dunlop Estate was condemned, but without mentioning names. As the meeting took place indoors, the police cannot say what actually took place. On the 19th inst. Mr. McAuley's cattle were driven off his lands on the estate, and were subsequently recovered as stated in the question. Every effort will be made by the police to prevent any further interference with the cattle on these lands.