§ Mr. DUFFYasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware of the fact that shots have been continually discharged during the past 12 months from the Courthouse, Gort, to the terror of the inhabitants, and contrary to the provisions of section 10 of The Summary Jurisdiction (Ireland) Act, 1851; whether he is aware that a man named Mark Connolly complained to the district inspector, Royal Irish Constabulary, stationed at Gort, that a shot was fired over his head from the said building on 13th June last; what action has been taken by this officer in the matter; why no action was taken in the past; and what steps will be taken to prevent a repetition of this conduct in future?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI am informed by the Constabulary authorities that there is no foundation for the statement that shots have been discharged from the Courthouse at Gort. Mark Connolly has not made any complaint to the police such as is mentioned in the question.
§ Mr. DUFFYasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware of the fact that the sergeant of the Royal Irish Constabulary stationed at Kinvara, county Galway, sends a telegram to the police authorities at Gort on each occasion that Mr. Michael O'Donohoe, J.P., county councillor, Kinvara, visits Gort in discharge of his public duties; will he state the cause or justification for such action, having regard to the fact that Mr. O'Donohoe discharges his duties conscientiously to all concerned?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI do not know whether the facts are as alleged, and I see no reason to inquire as to the manner in which the Constabulary authorities exercise their discretion in a case of the kind.