§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Chief Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the shooting, at Mullinagown, Borris, County Carlow, on 18th April, 1921, of Michael Ryan, aged 62, and his two cousins, James Farrell and Peter Farrell; if he is aware that Ryan was drawing water from his own well at the time and was known to be a peaceful man unconnected with the rebels, and that James and Peter Farrell were walking to their work after their dinner at the time that they were shot; and whether any arrests have been made in connection with these shootings?
§ Mr. HENRYAccording to the police report, a patrol of Crown forces came upon a fully armed party of about 15 rebels and a running fight ensued, in the course of which 4 civilians, including these 3 men, were killed and at least two others wounded. Ryan was apparently shot just outside his house which was in the line of advance of the Crown forces. It is believed by the police that the Farrells were not actually drilling, but that they1376W ran away with the rebels. An unoccupied house in the vicinity had apparently been used as a barrack, and arms and ammunition were found there. The Court of Inquiry found that these men were killed during an action between Crown forces and armed rebels.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Chief Secretary whether a court of inquiry has been held into the death of John O'Donnell, blacksmith, at Queens-town, on 31st May, stated to have been shot by one of three officers of the Cameron Highlanders after a conversation between them and O'Donnell; what was the finding of the court; and whether any arrests have been made?
§ Mr. HENRYThe Court of Inquiry in lieu of inquest in the case of John O'Connell of Carrignafoy, which is, I think, the case to which the hon. and gallant Member refers, found that the deceased was killed by the accidental discharge of a pistol by a military officer. In the execution of his duty the officer was "covering" the deceased at the time. He has been found to have been guilty of negligence and has been censured by his brigade commander.