HC Deb 30 January 1913 vol 47 cc1480-1
16. Captain CRAIG

asked whether the Chief Secretary has received a report of an outrage perpetrated at Fahy, in county Clare, by a party of moonlighters, who shot one bullock dead and wounded another on a farm belonging to Mr. John Cullinan; whether he is aware that several other outrages have been committed in connection with this farm; and whether anyone has been brought to justice?

Mr. BIRRELL

The police authorities inform me that on the 16th instant a bullock, the property of Mr. John Cullinan, was shot dead and another wounded on a farm at Fahee North, county Clare; but there is nothing to show that any number of persons were engaged in the commission of the outrage. No evidence has yet been obtained to bring home guilt to any person, but the police are pursuing their inquiries. Two cattle drives and a few cases of injury to the walls have taken place in connection with this farm, which consists of over 400 acres situated in a remote hilly country. The police are paying special attention to the farm.

17. Captain CRAIG

asked if the Chief Secretary's attention has been called to the charge delivered by County Court Judge Bodkin at Ennis, county Clare, on the 31st instant, in which he referred to the constantly occurring commission of outrages by the use of firearms; whether he has read that portion of the charge in which the judge refers to the practice in less civilised countries of establishing vigilance committees for the prompt punishment of criminals whom the ordinary law is powerless to bring to justice; whether he still refuses to give the law-abiding people in Clare adequate protection; and whether he will sanction the establishment of vigilance committees by persons in Clare whose lives and properties are attacked?

Mr. BIRRELL

I have read a newspaper report of the charge of the learned judge referred to. There is a large extra force of police in the county, and special measures have been and are being taken for the prevention of outrage and for the protection of all persons who require it. I have no power to sanction the establishment of vigilance committees as suggested.

Captain CRAIG

Will the right hon. Gentleman state whether he thinks that, in regard to its condition, Clare is the worst county in Ireland?

Mr. BIRRELL

Undoubtedly a part of Clare is in a very bad condition.