HC Deb 19 April 1921 vol 140 cc1686-7
43. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the Chief Secretary whether, subsequent to an ambush of police near Dungarvan, a levy of £100 each was made on 25th March on the following residents of the town: Mr. Fraher, Mrs. Boyle, Mr. M. Moloney, Mr. Patrick Hehir, and Mr. Thomas Casey, and as the fines were not paid, except by Mr. Fraher, the furniture of these persons was destroyed; by whose orders these fines were imposed; why these persons were selected; and whether there was any evidence that they were concerned in the ambush?

Mr. HENRY

The answer to the first and second parts of the question is in the affirmative. In regard to the last part the fines were imposed by the direction of the military governor of that martial law area, who was satisfied that the persons mentioned must have known of the impending attack on the Crown forces.

Captain W. BENN

Had these persons who were to be fined any opportunity of rebutting the evidence that was brought against them?

Mr. HENRY

I am quite sure that the military governor before taking such an extreme step made inquiry himself?

Captain BENN

Had the persons who were to suffer any opportunity of defending themselves at all?

Mr. HENRY

That must be left entirely to the military governor. He is a British officer of standing.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Why does this officer of standing pick out the house of a woman, Mrs. Boyle? How is she expected to be able to prevent ambushes or assassinations? What is the sense of it?