asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that it is alleged that Robert Keogh, Stratford-on-Slaney, Co. Wicklow, arrested on March 4th, was ill-treated by troops at the time of his arrest, and kept in a cattle wagon at Baltinglass Station for three days; that no charge has been made against him; that he is at present interned in Baltinglass Union; that it is stated on his behalf that he had taken no part in hostilities on either side in the present conflict, and that he was the sole support of an aged and blind father; and that testimony as to his character can be obtained from reputable local citizens; and to ask the Minister to state the reasons for his arrest and detention, and whether he can cause him to be released.
[WRITTEN ANSWERS.] - A COUNTY WICKLOW ARREST.
Keogh was not ill-treated by troops who had charge of him, but he was, I regret to say, struck by an officer who was labouring under excitement consequent on recognising Keogh as one of the principal Irregulars in the district in which he and others were wounded and four men killed. Keogh shared quarters in a cattle truck with troops for a time after his arrest, and was eventually transferred to Carlow Barracks. He is detained on a strong suspicion of having aided the Irregulars. It is not considered advisable to sanction his release at present.