§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the Chief Secretary whether, with regard to the police proceedings that were instituted against persons who spoke at a meeting organised by the Trades Union Congress and held in Dublin on the 5th April last, he is aware that other meetings, addressed by hon. Members of this House have been held on the same spot without interference, notably in April, 1912, and September, 1913; and why such action was taken in connection with this meeting to protest against the exclusion of Ulster from the provisions of the Government of Ireland Bill?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI am aware that public meetings have been held in Sackville Street, Dublin, on at least two occasions without interference, arrangements having been previously made for the holding of such meetings. The proceedings in the present case were taken to obtain a legal decision as to the right of holding meetings on a main thoroughfare and obstructing the traffic to the great inconvenience of the public. There are several open spaces near Sackville Street where a meeting could be held without inconvenience to the public, and the promoters of this meeting were warned beforehand against holding it in Sackville Street.