§ 11. Mr. HARTSHORNasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland on what charge, and on what evidence, Mr. John O'Sheehan, Roscommon, was court-martialled in September and sentenced to two years' imprisonment; where he is at present confined; and whether he is undergoing hospital treatment?
§ The VICE-PRESIDENT of the DEPARTMENT of AGRICULTURE, IRELAND (Mr. Hugh Barrie)This man, who had been convicted on two previous occasions upon the serious charges of carrying a revolver without a permit and obstructiong the police in the discharge of their duties, is now in Belfast Prison, where he is receiving treatment in the prison hospital. He was the proprietor and manager of a theatrical touring company, and his performances were of a very seditious character, and had been under the observation of the police for some time. On the 26th August, 1918, these performances were the subject of court-martial proceedings under Regulations 27 and 42 of the Defence of the Realm Act, and he was again lawfully-convicted and sentenced for doing acts likely to cause disaffection.
§ Mr. HARTSHORNCan the hon. Gentleman tell us what the charge was upon which this man was convicted, and also the nature of the evidence? That was in my question.
§ Mr. BARRIEI am only passing on to the hon. Member the official information supplied to me.
§ Mr. HARTSHORNAs the Chief Secretary is not here, I will put this question again when the right, hon. Gentleman is. present.
§ Mr. MacVEAGHWhat district? Do not talk nonsense in the House!