9. Major MALONEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, in view of the dissatisfaction caused by the dismissal of Sir Joseph Byrne from the position of chief of the Royal Irish Constabulary, he is prepared to give any information to justify the action taken against that distinguished officer?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Macpherson)Sir Joseph Byrne has been granted three months' leave, pending a reply to a request that he should avail himself of an opportunity to send in his resignation. He has been informed that the Government came with reluctance, and after prolonged and anxious consideration, to the conclusion that he was unequal to that active discharge of all the essential duties of Inspector General for which, in the circumstances now prevailing in Ireland, the Government are compelled to look.