§ 53. Mr. O'SHAUGHNESSYasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that Michael C. O'Connor, a native of Ballyhahill, county Limerick, and secondary teacher in the Capuchin College, Kilkenny, was on his holidays in Easter week; that he went to Dublin on the Tuesday after Easter, 25th April; that he and two friends went to the Phoenix Park on Wednesday, 26th April, and sat in the People's Gardens; and that subsequently he was killed there, it is alleged, by the military; and whether, under the circumstances, and as Mr. O'Connor was in no way connected with the rebellion, he will have the case of this man included in the public inquiry about 2057 to be set up into the killing of noncombatant persons by the military in Dublin in connection with the insurrection?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am informed that the circumstances are believed to be as stated in the question. Fire was opened on the Headquarters Offices, Parkgate, on the 26th April, from the direction of the People's Garden, and was returned by the Guard. When firing ceased the gardens were searched and two bodies found, one of which was subsequently identified as that of Mr. O'Connor. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative, as it is believed that no further facts could now be elicited by inquiry.
§ Mr. O'SHAUGHNESSYWill any compensation be given to the parents of this man?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI cannot say that without notice.
§ Mr. O'SHAUGHNESSYWill the right hon. Gentleman consider it?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIf the hon. Member will give me any further facts, I certainly will.
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, Sir.