§ 94. Mr. DEVLINasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that on the nights of the 12th and 13th November last one of His Majesty's destroyers which was lying at anchor at Ventry Harbour, county Kerry,' opened fire on the adjoining countryside, and that shells from the vessel fell near houses in the villages of Terrivane and Gortadoo and in the glens west of Dingle, shaking the houses in the first-named village and making deep holes in the neighbouring fields; and whether he has any explanation to make on the matter?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Colonel Sir James Craig)I have been asked to reply to this question. The answer to the first part is in the negative. As to the second part, the facts are as follows: In view of an expected attack on the Royal Irish Constabulary on the nights of November 12th and 13th, one of His Majesty's mine-sweepers fired nine rounds of star shell for the purpose of illuminating the countryside. No live ammunition of any sort was fired, and no other firing took place from any of His Majesty's ships in Irish waters on the dates in question.
§ Mr. DEVLINMay I ask the hon. and gallant Gentleman whether there would not be a more economical means of illuminating the neighbourhood than this?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI do not think, in view of the serious nature of the outrages that were being perpetrated, any other device could be thought of for lighting up the countryside.
§ Mr. DEVLINWas it at Larne the hon. and gallant Gentleman learned that?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI am quite ready to benefit from any experience I have obtained anywhere.