asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that during the past year a large number of cattle and sheep-stealing cases have occurred in the neighbourhood of Rathangan, Miltown, and Newbridge, Co. Kildare; that there is general complaint that the Gárda Síochána have not been sufficiently active in bringing offenders to justice, and whether he will inquire into the matter.
CEISTEANNA.—QUESTIONS. [ORAL ANSWERS.] - CATTLE AND SHEEP STEALING CASES IN KILDARE.
In the area to which the Deputy refers four cases of alleged cattle-stealing and two cases of alleged sheep-stealing, embracing in all four head of cattle and two lambs, were reported to the Gárda Síochána during the year 1924. The closest inquiry was made in each case. One of the cattle alleged to have been stolen was found to have strayed and was returned to the owner. In the other three cases of alleged cattle-stealing the animals have not so far been traced nor has anyone been made amenable. The cases of alleged sheep-stealing occurred during the lambing season, and upon full investigation the Gárda came to the conclusion that the disappearance of the two lambs was due to causes other than larceny, with which conclusion the respective owners agreed. No complaints have been made to the local officers of the Gárda Síochána of any inactivity on the part of the Gárda in investigating and dealing with such reported cases.
Is the Minister aware that a good many other cases seem to have occurred in these districts?
I am not aware, and I could only be officially aware if the cases were reported to the Gárda Síochána, but that does not seem to be the case.