asked the Minister for Justice if any member of the Gárda Síochána giving the name of John Brown bid £14 for Mr. McEniry's cattle which were offered for sale at Prussia Street, Dublin, on 20th September, and, if so, (a) if he was acting under the orders or with the consent of his superior officers in so bidding; (b) on whose behalf did he purchase or attempt to purchase said cattle; and (c) out of what moneys was the purchase price of said cattle provided or proposed to be provided.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bid for Seized Battle.
Mr. Rice
It is not in the public interest to give the information for which the Deputy asks.
Will the Minister not disclose the fact that Sergeant McManus was the man? Will he not disclose the facts?
Mr. Rice
Will the Minister indicate on what grounds he suggests it is not in the public interest to disclose facts that have already been disclosed by the newspaper supporting the present Government, popularly and humourously known as "Truth in the News"? Will he state whether or not Sergeant McManus was the person who bid for the cattle?
If it is not in the public interest to give the information, why was I served with a notice in which Sergeant McManus's name appears, on the authority of the Attorney-General? The sheriff's officer proceeded with the sale and sold the cattle to one Sergeant McManus. Why is it not in the public interest to disclose Sergeant McManus's name? Is he a member of the new Ogpu?