To ask the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that application for release has been made on behalf of Mr. Peadar Halpin, Dundalk, now detained in Newbridge Barracks; whether it is a fact that on his arrest in August last this prisoner was neither interrogated nor given any reason for his arrest; and further, to ask what are the reasons for Mr. Halpin's arrest and detention, and whether the Minister can now see his way to have him released.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. - A DUNDALK ARREST.
Mr. Halpin was arrested for aiding and abetting Irregulars during the time of their occupation of Dundalk. It is not considered advisable to release him at present.
May I ask the Minister whether it would be possible for me to get into communication by letter with Mr. Halpin now?
At the present moment the reception of all letters by prisoners is forbidden.
May I ask why it is forbidden?
That question does not arise out of the original question.