asked the Minister for Justice if he will state on whose instructions members of the Gárda Síochána prevented a group of national teachers parading at Croke Park on 6th October, 1946; if he is aware that some of these teachers were thrown to the ground by members of the Gárda Síochána; further, if he will state whether a larger number of the Gárda than is usual was present on the sideline during the game at Croke Park on 27th October, 1946; and if so, the reasons for the presence of the increased number of members of the force.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Demonstration at Croke Park.
Mr. Boland
I am informed that members of the Gárda Síochána were on duty at Croke Park on Sunday, October 6th, for the purpose of assisting the stewards in regulating the crowds and preserving good order. In the course of their duties they assisted in removing unauthorised persons from the playing pitch. The number of Gárdaí on duty in Croke Park on 27th October did not exceed the number usually there on such occasions.
The Minister states that members of the Gárda Síochána assisted the stewards in removing unauthorised persons from the playing pitch. Could the Minister say if it was the G.A.A. who requested the authorities to intervene or did the Gárda authorities intervene on their own without being requested to do so?
Mr. Boland
I understand that they came in to help the stewards. The stewards were unable to clear the pitch and the Gárdaí came in to assist them.