HC Deb 20 March 1919 vol 113 cc2210-1
22. Captain REDMOND

asked the Chief Secretary for Irelandif he is aware that a branch of the National Union of Police and Prison Officers was openly established in 8, D'Olier Street, Dublin, last December, and that the Home Secretary has stated, in a Circular dated 12th September, 1918, that there was no objection to the police becoming members of this union; why members of the Royal Irish Constabulary were not informed that the Lord Lieutenant could not see his way to permit them to join the union until the 4th February; and if he can state the total membership of the National Union of Police and Prison Officers and the number of Royal Irish Constabulary men who joined before, and who have joined since, the 4th February?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The question as to whether the Royal Irish Constabulary should be allowed to join the union required very careful consideration, and when the Government had come to a decision on the point the police were at once informed. I have no information that any members of the Royal Irish Constabulary have joined the union or as to the total membership of the union.

Captain REDMOND

Isit not a fact that the members of the London Police Force and other police forces throughout this country are allowed to join this union, and why is this differentiation made in the case of the Royal Irish Constabulary?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The Royal Irish Constabulary is an entirely different force; it is partly a military force, and I am not prepared to sanction any joining any union.

Captain REDMOND

Why should not the members of the Royal Irish Constabulary—who have undoubtedly rendered great service to the State—be allowed to protect their own interests in a similar manner to members of the forces in this country?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The Royal Irish Constabulary is a magnificent force. The work which they do is worthy of all praise, for so long as they continue to do their work I shall consider it my duty to look after their interests.

Colonel THORNE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what methods and what channel the men have got to ventilate their grievances?

Mr. MACPHERSON

They can do so to their superior officers, and they are promptly and sympathetically considered.

Captain REDMOND

Is that the opinion of the rank and file of the Royal Irish Constabulary?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am glad to say it is.