asked the Minister for Justice whether certain offences were committed on a farm in the townland of Inchinclare, Croom, County Limerick, in July and September, 1945; whether certain Gárda investigations took place in connection with this matter, in the course of which neighbouring farmers were questioned and specimens of handwriting taken, etc.; if the perpetrator of the offences has been traced; and if so, why proceedings have not been instituted.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Offences on County Limerick Farm.
The Gárda received complaints of damage to property and posting of threatening notes on the farm referred to. They questioned and took specimens of handwriting from persons living in the locality. As a result of these investigations no suspicion rests on the neighbours of the farmer concerned.
Does the Minister consider it fair in the interests of these innocent persons in that locality to confine investigations as to identity of the perpetrators to certain people in the locality?
Mr. Boland
So far as I can see, the Guards did what they usually do. They made investigations and the result has been that no suspicion rests on any of the neighbours.
You cannot compel anyone to give a specimen of handwriting.