§ 26. Major O'NEILLasked what steps are being taken to prevent interference with hunting on the part of certain persons in Ireland; how many packs of 1934 hounds have ceased hunting as a result of such interference; and whether he is aware that in some cases firearms have been used with the result that at least one valuable horse has been destroyed?
§ Mr. SAMUELSIn several cases hunting has been interfered with by parties of men who stated that they were acting on the order of the Irish Republic, and that hunting would not be permitted until the prisoners now interned were released. The particular hunts in such cases were abandoned, but it is not possible to say how many packs have ceased hunting. On the 19th instant the Ward Union Stag Hounds were prevented from hunting by a party of men who fired two or three revolver shots and wounded a horse belonging to one of the hunting party. The case is under investigation. This is the only case so far in which arms are known to have been used.
§ Major O'NEILLCan the right hon. Gentleman say what protection, if any, is afforded at the meets of these hounds?
§ Mr. SAMUELSIf it is anticipated that a disturbance will take place the police are there.
§ Mr. DEVLINWould the right hon. Gentleman let the prisoners out, and they can hunt as much as they like?
§ Sir J. BUTCHERIn the interests of horse-breeding, will he do his utmost to protect these hounds?