§ Sir MAURICE DOCKRELLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland is he aware that John O'Brien, a demobilised Irish soldier, was employed before the War by the Limerick Corporation as a night watchman and was permitted to join up in 1915, a promise having been given him of re-employment after the War; is he aware that O'Brien sued the corporation before County Court Judge Law-Smith for failure to re-employ him; was he last month awarded by the judge £25 for breach of agreement and £2 2s. costs; and will the Irish Government afford legal assistance to any demobilised Irish soldier who has been similarly treated and desires to establish his rights?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI have seen a newspaper report of the case referred to, and the facts appear to be as stated in the question. I much regret that the case is one in which the Government could not properly intervene, though they are most248W anxious to do so in all cases where the demobilised soldier or sailor is penalised because of his loyalty in Ireland.