HC Deb 02 August 1918 vol 109 cc788-9W
Mr. NUGENT

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will grant a Return giving the period of service in the Royal Irish Constabulary for the two latest promotions made to the rank of sergeant in Armagh, Tyrone, Monaghan, and Down; whether steps will be taken immediately to keep a register at the Castle of all constables who have passed the qualifying examination for promotion; and whether he will promote them as vacancies occur, irrespective of the topographical environment?

Mr. SHORTT

The length of service of the two latest promotions from the rank of constable to rank of acting-sergeant or sergeant in each of the counties named is as follows:—

  • Co. Armagh—19 years, and 15 years 9 months.
  • Co. Tyrone—25 years, and 24 years 10 months.
  • Co. Down—22 years 8 months, and 23 years 6 months.
  • Co. Monaghan—15 years 9 months, and 17 years 2 months.

With regard to the latter part of the question, the subject was fully considered by a Constabulary Committee of Inquiry held in 1914, who reported that they were unable to recommend a departure from the present system of separate county seniority promotion lists, and I am not prepared to depart from this recommendation.

Mr. NUGENT

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is aware that the war bonus recently granted to the Dublin Metropolitan Police and the Royal Irish Constabulary has not satisfied the demand of the men or resulted in any increase in their pensionable pay; that it has been raised by only 3s. per week since October, 1914, and that this increase did not even redress the pre-war grievance; if it is the intention to introduce legislation to deal with the claims put forward by the men in their bodies last year; and whether, in view of the fact that the police are not now permitted to have any union organisation to protect their interest, it was arranged to receive an elected deputation from the rank and file of both forces and hear the views of the men in friendly conference?

Mr. SHORTT

As regards the war bonus, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the question asked by the hon. Member for North Kilkenny on the 30th ultimo on this subject. No legislation to increase the permanent pay of the Royal Irish Constabulary or Dublin Metropolitan Police is at present contemplated. I am not aware of any such definite arrangement as that indicated in the last part of the question, but every possible facility is given to men of these forces to represent their claims to the proper authorities.