12. Major NEWMANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether members of the Royal Irish Constabulary are eligible for membership in the various grades of the Order of the British Empire; and, if so, will he say what appointments to the Order have been made among the officers and men of the force, in view of the devotion to duty and loyalty displayed by the force as a whole, and the conduct of individual officers and men in circumstances of difficulty and danger?
§ Mr. SAMUELSMembers of the Royal Irish Constabulary are eligible for the Order of the British Empire, and the Inspector-General is a Knight of the Order; the Commissioner of Police Belfast, a Commander; and County Inspector Holmes, a member of the Order.
§ Mr. SAMUELSI am sure that honours or appreciation which can be given for the fidelity, discipline, and perfect way in which the Royal Irish Constabulary have been discharging their offices in very difficult circumstances would be approved by the House. I am sure honours of this character are merited.