§ 17. Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland for how long the Irish History written by the late Reverend Denis Murphy was in use in the Irish Roman Catholic national schools, and on what grounds its further use was eventually forbidden; whether the Commissioners of National Education are satisfied that this book and the other historical text books, the use of which has recently been forbidden, were in all respects proper and suitable works on which to educate the youth of Ireland at the expense of the British Exchequer; and, if so, why their use has been forbidden?
§ Mr. HENRYThe "Short History of Ireland" by the Reverend Denis Murphy appeared on the Lists of Books sanctioned by the Commissioners of National Education for use in national schools between the years 1900 and 1911. The Commissioners are not in a position to say to what extent this particular work was actually used in the schools inasmuch as it was one of a number of text-books in history on the sanctioned list, and the 575 selection of books from the lists rested with the school managers in each case. It is believed, however, that very few schools used this book. No order forbidding the use of this work was made, but owing to being out of print it was removed from the lists of sanctioned books published after 1911. With regard to the last part of the question I would refer my hon. and learned Friend to the replies given to previous questions on the subject.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERWhy has no answer been given to the question as to why the use of this book was first permitted and afterwards forbidden?
§ Mr. HENRYI have referred my hon. and learned Friend to the previous answers given on this subject, and he will find there a statement by the late Chief Secretary dealing with that question.
§ Captain W. BENNWas it not prohibited because it gives the Irish view of Irish history instead of the English view?