asked the Minister for External Affairs whether his attention has been directed to the case of Joseph Walsh, an Irish citizen resident in Britain, who, having been conscripted for service in the British Army, applied for and was refused an exit permit from Britain, declined to serve in the army there and was courtmartialled as a deserter; if he will state the findings of the courtmartial, and what steps have been or will be taken to protect the interests of this Irish citizen; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Courtmartial of Irish Citizen.
I have been making inquiries into this case. At the time when he was conscripted, there was an arrangement in existence between the British authorities and ourselves which, if he had complied with it, would have entitled him to return to Ireland if he so desired. I am at present considering his case to see whether it is possible to make representations on his behalf. I am not in a position to say anything more at the moment, but may be able to give additional information if the Deputy will put down a question in, say, a month's time.