§ Mr. T. P. O'CONNORMay I ask the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he can give the House any information with regard to the death of two civilians—a man and a woman—in Dublin yesterday?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Macpherson)No; I am sorry I have not had notice of this question; but I have received the following telegram:
The 22nd of March is the anniversary day of the Royal Berkshire Regiment, and 150 were given free tickets by the battalion for the performance at the Royal Theatre. At the end of the performance the men sang the National Anthem. No disturbance occurred. The men then proceeded home in groups, singing. A crowd collected and followed, and on reaching Kelly's Corner, at about 9 p.m., the crowd commenced to throw stones at the troops. The troops were unarmed, but defended themselves, gradually moving up South Richmond Street. On reaching Lennox Street, the troops were fired on by the crowd, who used revolvers; one soldier was shot in the chest. At 9.45 p.m. information reached Royal Berks headquarters at Portobello Barracks concerning the disturbance. A cyclist patrol, under an officer, was ordered to proceed to the scene of the disturbance, and to assist the men who had been attending the theatre to return. The patrol reached the scene at about 10 p.m., and was supported by a
§ piquet on foot. On reaching Portobello Bridge, fire was opened on patrol from direction of Portobello House, and stones were thrown by the crowd. The officer in charge of patrol, considering that his command was in danger, cautioned the crowd, and ordered them to disperse. The crowd refused to do so. The officer then ordered ten rounds to be fired, and charged the crowd, which withdrew to Fade Street. The patrol followed up the crowd as far as Kelly's Corner, where it was again fired on by civilians. A position was taken up at Kelly's Corner, and civilians in the vicinity were searched for arms. A further reinforcement was sent to the patrol from Portobello Barracks, but nothing further transpired."
§ Sir J. BUTCHERHave any arrests been made?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI cannot state that at the present moment. I will endeavour to find out.
§ Colonel YATEWill that officer be commended for his good services?