12. Captain CRAIGasked the Chief Secretary the number of malicious incendiary fires which have occurred in the north of county Dublin since the beginning of August last as the result of the strikes organised by the Dublin Lakinites; what is the estimated total value of property in this district which has been maliciously destroyed; what is the total amount of claims made by the sufferers for compensation out of the county rates; and what number of persons have been brought to 1109 justice for these outrages and how many have been punished?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe police authorities inform me that sixteen incendiary fires have occurred in the north of county Dublin since the beginning of August last. The total amount of claims made by the sufferers is £4,583. One arrest was made, but the evidence being insufficient a nolle Prosequi was entered by the Crown. The motive for these outrages can only be a matter of opinion.