HC Deb 26 May 1921 vol 142 cc285-6
8. Mr. ACLAND

asked the Chief Secretary whether a man named McNamara, of Limerick City, has been kept for more than four weeks in a cell 12 feet by seven feet by nine feet high, in the temporary barracks at Mount Brown, Rathkeale, where, being the only prisoner, he is in solitary confinement 21 hours out of the 24; whether he is aware that McNamara has not been tried or had any charge made against him; what is the reason for keeping an untried prisoner under such degrading and unhealthy conditions; and whether he will give orders either for his release or for his removal to a regular prison or internment camp?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I am informed by the Commander-in-Chief that Cornelius McNamara was arrested on 8th April, 1921, on suspicion of having taken part in murders of police. He was retained in military custody at Mount Brown pending investigation into his case. The room in which he was kept is 12 feet by nine feet by nine feet, is airy, healthy, and provided with good windows, and is not a cell, but the butler's pantry of the house. It was provided with proper furniture. This prisoner was allowed exercise three times a day for one hour or more each time, and during his confinement made no complaint at all. He has now been removed to Limerick, and will be sent to an internment camp.