§ Mr. JOHN O'CONNOR (by Private Notice)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he has received any report as to a commotion recently at the Cork Palace Theatre when a play entitled, "An Irish lead" was produced; whether this play and several of its incidents were of a nature offensive to Roman Catholics, who formed the bulk of the audience; and whether in the demonstration of resentment that took place on the occasion there was not, in fact, any manifestation of Sinn Fein or disloyalty shown?
§ Mr. DUKEI have received reports as to the occurrence mentioned in the question. I am informed that the incident in question seemed to be a pre-concerted demonstration against the representation on the stage of incidents of religious observances. I have not sufficient information to enable me to say whether there was a political motive in the demonstration.
§ Mr. R. MCNEILLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this play shortly before had been given, by request, at a Catholic institution, and had been received with much favour?
§ Mr. DUKEI have some information on that subject, but I believe the fact is that the communications which took place between the representatives of a religious body, such as my hon. Friend mentions, and those who were responsible for the play came to nothing.
§ Mr. BOLANDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it has been publicly denied that any presentation took place of the kind suggested?
§ Mr. MCNEILLIs the right hon. Gentleman also aware that it has been publicly asserted?
§ Mr. DUKEThere are few matters of public interest in Ireland on which there are not public assertions on both sides.
§ Major NEWMANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this play was produced at the Cork Opera House without any disturbance at all?
§ Mr. DUKEIt may be so; but, if I may say so respectfully, the number of questions addressed to this topic greatly transcends its importance.
§ Mr. T. M. HEALYWould the right hon. Gentleman also include newspaper paragraphs?