§ Mr. FLAVINasked the Chief Secretary how long District Inspector Walsh has been in control of the police force in Listowel; how many prosecutions there have been in that period against licensed traders, and how many convictions; how many cases have been stated by the magistrates for the opinion of the superior courts, and with what result; whether District Inspector Walsh deals extensively in horses and employs the men under his charge in connection with these transactions; whether he is aware that a public meeting of the inhabitants of Listowel was held in June, 1910, and passed a resolution protesting against the action of the police authorities; and, having regard to these matters, whether he will cause an inquiry to be held?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Inspector-General informs me that District Inspector Walsh has been stationed at Listowel for about two years. During that period there have been seventy-nine prosecutions against licensed traders, and twenty convictions. Two cases were stated for the Supreme Courts, in one the decision of the magistrates was upheld, and in the other no order was made. The district inspector does not deal in horses. I am aware that a meeting was called in June, 1910, for the purpose indicated in the question, the resolution referred to, however, was not proposed, and the meeting fell through. I see no grounds for any inquiry.