§ Mr. J. P. FARRELLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether his attention had been called to the circumstances under which a dance organised by Protestants and Catholics in the Town Hall, Dromore, had to be abandoned; whether it was a fact that because a few Catholics were included in the invitations threats were openly used by the local Orangemen to break up the gathering by violence; and whether, in these circumstances, any steps are being taken by the Executive to protect the social rights of the people of Dromore from such organised violence?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe police authorities inform me that a local publican organised a ball to be held in the Town Hall, Dromore, on 19th January last. Three Unionists joined the organising committee, but withdrew on ascertaining that the ball would be chiefly patronised by people of the opposite views. No open threats of violence were used, but rumours were circulated that Orange drumming parties would attend to oppose the ball being held, and it was therefore abandoned. The police will take any steps which may be necessary to preserve the peace in Dromore.