HC Deb 03 March 1921 vol 138 cc2020-2W
Mr. MILLS

asked the Chief Secretary the result of the inquiry into the murders of the men named Lumley, Holycross, Thurles; Michael Ryan, Curraghduff; and William Gleeson, Upperchurch?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

The verdict of the coroner's inquest on the death of Richard Lumley, of Holycross, was one of wilful murder against members (unnamed) of the police and military forces. The finding of the Court of Inquiry in the cases of Michael Ryan and William Gleeson was that these men were willfully murdered by persons unknown, and that there was no evidence before the Court as to the identity of the murderers or the circumstances of the murder.

Mr. WATERSON

asked the Chief Secretary whether the Inver Co-operative Creamery and shop were completely destroyed by uniformed men on the 24th February; whether he has any report to make on the matter as to why the creamery was destroyed; and whether compensation will be paid by the State?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

If the hon. Member will repeat this question, of which I only received notice yesterday, on Thursday of next week I hope then to be in a position to furnish him with a reply.

Mr. GRUNDY

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that the two constables of the Royal Irish Constabulary who were arrested in connection with the damage done at Chapel Street, Elphin, were subsequently seen on duty; that they were afterwards removed to Strokestown, and that one of them was seen on duty last week; whether these two constables have been released; whether any disciplinary measures are to be taken; and, if not, the reason why?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I have called for a report with reference to the statement that these men have been returned to duty. Perhaps the hon. Member will repeat this question, of which I only received notice yesterday, one day next week.

Mr. T. GRIFFITHS

asked the Chief Secretary whether Michael Barry, aged 20, brother of Kevin Barry, already executed, has been arrested and taken to an internment camp; whether the charges made against him are that there were two bullets in or near his home, that he had cut off a girl's hair, and that he had two volunteer caps in his possession; whether any inquiry has been made with regard to those charges; whether, in regard to the first charge, there is any evidence that Michael Barry knew of the existence of the two bullets; and whether the lock of hair found in the house was a lock belonging to his aunt, who, in accordance with custom, sent the lock home when she entered a religious order, and the two caps were boys' Scotch caps worn when the two brothers were children?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

Michael Barry was tried by court-martial on the 24th day of January for keeping two rounds of ammunition contrary to Regulations 9 A.A. (D) Restoration of Order in Ireland Regulations. One bullet had the top cut off so that if used it would cause a more serious wound.

Forward to