asked the Minister for Defence whether in view of the fact that armed resistance to the State has ceased, and that the country is now returned to normal, will he have all untried political prisoners released before Christmas, and whether all wanted men who are on the run, and at present away from their own homes will be allowed to return without interference from the forces of the State; whether in the event of the answer to the first part of the question being in the affirmative the Minister will have a statement to that effect inserted in all daily and provincial papers.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - RELEASE OF PRISONERS.
As stated in my reply to Deputy Byrne on the 4th instant, prisoners are being released as quickly as considerations of public safety will permit.
As regards men "on the run," I cannot undertake that all such men may return to their homes without fear of interference.
I would like to ask the Minister for Defence whether, in view of the reply, he is aware of the fact that keeping men "on the run" and away from their own homes is also keeping them away from their employment and encouraging crime?
The Government is quite aware of the fact that there are men "on the run," and quite aware of the possibilities arising out of a situation like that. The matter is receiving, and has been receiving, the fullest possible consideration. It is not possible to give the undertaking that the Deputy asks for.