asked the Minister for Justice whether, as alleged in the House on 6th November, a student of University College, Dublin, detained under the Offences Against the State Act, 1940, was released because of pressure brought to bear on the Government and without signing any form of undertaking; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Release of Student.
There is no truth in the allegation made by Deputy McQuillan. The student in question was released on 17th August on signing the following undertaking:—
"I, Michael M. Davern, undertake to respect the Constitution of Ireland and the laws, and I declare that I will not be a member of, or assist, any organisation which is an unlawful organisation under the Offences Against the State Act, 1939."
Every person in detention has been informed in writing that on giving such an undertaking, he will be released forthwith.
In view of the fact that my name has been mentioned, may I inquire from the Minister is it not a fact that this student, who was arrested at 11.30 at night last July, was taken to the Curragh Internment Camp, in spite of the fact he was prepared to swear he was not a member of and did not intend to become a member of any alleged illegal organisation and that he was not released until he went on hunger strike?
The Deputy said he did not sign anything.
Order!
I was replying to a deliberate misstatement the Deputy made in the course of the debate on the prisoners.
In spite of the fact he was prepared to swear he was not a member of any alleged illegal organisation, he had to go on hunger strike before he was released.
He had to sign the form.
You do not know what the truth is.
Order! Question No. 65.