§ Mr. T. M. HEALYasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he will explain why the garrison town of Fermoy has been declared out of bounds for officers in Moore Park, who are thus prevented from visiting their brother officers in Fermoy or enjoying the evening amusements of a garrison town or a dinner with friends; is he aware that many of these officers have thrown up good positions and left comfortable homes to serve the country, and why should they be treated like schoolboys; was application made to the colonel commanding Moore Park for permission to allow the officers to attend an entertainment in aid of soldiers' funds in the Assembly Rooms, Fermoy, recently; were only about 10 per cent. of the officers granted passes; is this the first time that such a slur has been thrown on the town by a local commander; and what is the justification for it?
§ Mr. TENNANTMoore Park was placed out of bounds on the 6th February by the officer commanding acting within his discretion. The restriction was subsequently modified, and on the 18th February was withdrawn. Far from any slur being thrown on the town of Fermoy, its attractions were apparently so great that they were found to interfere with the training of some young officers. Officers commanding must have discretion to take such steps as they think necessary for the efficient and rapid training of those under 1553W their command. No officer would be treated like a schoolboy unless his behaviour showed that such treatment was appropriate and desirable.