asked the Minister for Justice whether he has any information of recently renewed Communistic activity in this State; and if so, whether he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Communistic Activity.
Mr. Boland
So far as I am aware, any activities of the kind referred to in the question are being carried on, at present, within the law and I propose, in accordance with the usual practice, to regard as confidential any information about such activities which comes to me through official channels.
Does the Minister regard it as proper to allow armchair Communists to function openly in this country? Is the Minister not aware that societies of this nature fomented Communism in other countries?
Mr. Boland
I think as long as they keep to the armchair, they are fairly safe.
Is the Minister not aware that these Soviet Friendship Societies elsewhere led to the formation of fifth columns and may have a like effect here?
Mr. Boland
I have full information about them but, as I have told the Deputy, the information is confidential.
There are enough lampposts in this country to hang fifth columnists, if the necessity arises.
Some people ought to be hanged on them long ago.