HC Deb 16 November 1916 vol 87 cc962-3
37. Mr. LUNDON

asked the Chief Secretary whether John Ryan, treasurer of the Limerick County Board, Gaelic Athletic Association, was arrested at Pallas, county Limerick, on Sunday for refusing to allow policemen to attend a hurling match there without paying the ordinary entrance fee charged to the public; if so, whether he is still in custody; and what charge is to be preferred against him?

Mr. DUKE

James Ryan was arrested as stated for obstructing the police contrary to No. 43 of the Defence of the Realm Regulations. The case came on for hearing at New Pallas Petty Sessions on Tuesday last, when it was adjourned for a month on Ryan's application, and he was released on bail.

Mr. FLAVIN

What was the obstruction caused by Ryan for which he was arrested?

Mr. DUKE

I really cannot tell.

Mr. HAZLETON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say if under the Regulation the police are entitled to go into places of amusement free of charge?

Mr. DUKE

I should say that depended entirely on the object for which they found it necessary to go there.

Mr. FLAVIN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether in this country police in plain clothes or in uniform are entitled to go into football matches free of charge?

Mr. DUKE

If their duty calls them. I never heard of them being excluded in this country.