HC Deb 11 January 1916 vol 77 cc1443-4
38. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Attorney-General for Ireland whether he has received from the Carrickmacross Urban District Council a protest adopted at a special meeting against the sentence of imprisonment passed by two stipendary magistrates, imported there for the purpose, against James Ross, John Quinn, and Eugene Donnelly, for having joined in the public singing of "God Save Ireland," a tune now played by military bands for recruiting purposes; and, in view of the opinion of the magistracy, clergy, and people of the place that this sentence is prejudicial to the peace of the district, whether it is to be enforced?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL for IRELAND (Mr. J. Gordon)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. I have no power to interfere with the sentence.

Mr. GINNELL

Will the right hon. Gentleman say why this case was taken out of the hands of the local magistracy and given to a body of imported magistrates?

Mr. GORDON

The hon. Member should know that the case was taken in the ordinary way—

Mr. GINNELL

No!

Mr. GORDON

Before the magistrates at Petty Sessions.

Mr. LYNCH

Would it not be altogether better to drop these petty vexatious prosecutions?

Mr. GINNELL

Is it not the fact that this case was tried, not by the local magistrates, but by two hired magistrates from a distance?