asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that on the 13th August, 1934, in Marsh's yard, in the City of Cork, six members of the "S" Branch of the Gárda Síochána opened fire with rifles and revolvers on a group of unarmed men numbering about twenty, killing one of these men named Michael Patrick Lynch and wounding six others; and if he is further aware that these men were in a confined space and unable to escape from the fire; and further, to ask him if any proceedings have been taken against these six members of the "S" Branch of the Gárda Síochána in respect of the aforesaid incidents in Marsh's yard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Incidents in Cork Sale Yard.
I am fully aware of the events which occurred on the occasion referred to by the Deputy. The answer to the last part of his question is in the negative.
Might I ask the Minister why no proceedings have been taken against these men who were guilty of shooting down in cold blood this young man and his companions?
I am satisfied that these Guards acted in pursuance of their duty, and acted properly. I might also point out to the Deputy that at the coroner's inquest there was no suggestion such as is now embodied in the Deputy's question.
With all respect to the Minister, there was. Might I ask the Minister whether he seriously suggests that 49 Guards were not able to deal with 20 men without opening rifle fire?
Were there not 3,000 there?
There were only 20 in the yard. With your permission, a Chinn Comhairle, I propose to raise the subject matter of this question on the adjournment, as I am not satisfied with the Minister's answer.