HC Deb 07 July 1910 vol 18 cc1772-3
Mr. HAZLETON

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that it is a regulation of the Dublin Metropolitan Police that the members of the force shall devote their whole time to the police service; for what reason is there no similar regulation in the Royal Irish Constabulary service; and whether it is proposed to assimilate the practice in both forces?

Mr. REDMOND BARRY

The Constabulary Regulations do not state in so many words that members of the force shall devote their whole time to police service, but this is nevertheless the rule and practice of the force. The employment of certain members of the force as ship inspectors under the Department of Agriculture does not violate this rule as the work is practically police duty.

Mr. HAZLETON

asked whether it is an official regulation that anyone joining the Dublin Metropolitan Police is not to belong to any political or secret society (that of Freemasons excepted); what are the grounds on which an exception is made in favour of the Freemason Society; whether it is proposed to continue this regulation; and whether a similar regulation applies to the Royal Irish Constabulary?

Mr. REDMOND BARRY

The matter is not one of official regulation. Both the Royal Irish Constabulary and the Dublin Metropolitan Police are obliged to take an oath to the effect stated in the hon. Member's question, by virtue of the Statutes 6 and 7, William IV., c. 13, Sec. 17, and 6 and 7 William IV., c. 29, Sec. 44, respectively. No change could be effected under the existing law.