asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that four men, named James Jacob, John Jacob, Thomas Cross, and Thomas Dunne, from Rathangan, Co. Kildare, were arrested on April 2nd by military, after they had been remanded on bail by District Justice Cussen; whether they were subsequently released on condition that they would come up when called upon, and whether, upon investigation, it was found that the charge against them could not be proved; whether these men are still in military custody, although all are agreeable to sign an undertaking; to ask whether he will have these men released forthwith.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. [ORAL ANSWERS.] - RATHANGAN ARRESTS.
The men mentioned were arrested by Civic Guard and charged before the District Justice, who ordered that the prisoners be handed over to the military. The prisoners were released, and re-arrested shortly afterwards by troops. They were brought before a Committee of Officers, charged with a series of robberies in the district of Rathangan. The recommendation of the Committee is under consideration.