THE IRISH TROUBLE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XL, Issue 1832, 28 May 1918, Page 3

THE IRISH TROUBLE.

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY. London, May 26. Mr Arthur Lynch, M.P., declares, that the Nationalists do not sympathise with pro : Germanism. Undoubtedly the Sinn Feiners were actuated by sincere nationalism, but their tactics were all wrong . It was paramountly important for Ireland that the Allies should win the war. It would be an eternal disgrace to humanity if Hohenzollernism triumphed, whereas an Allied victory would open a new era of liberty, wherein Ireland would share. He would do his utmost to secure this result.

It is expected the discussion in the Commons next week will reveal fuller details of the Sinn Fein connection with the German plot. De Valera has written to an Irish Bishop denying the existence of any German plot. The pi’ess almost unanimously declare that the published evidence justifies the Government action in Ireland. Some papers favour the I»ublication of fuller facts, and a public trial of the ringleaders, in order to satisfy Irish public opinion. The Daily Chronicle says if it could be shown the Sinn Fein leaders really conspired to establish German submarine bases on the Irish coast, it would produce a groat revolution of feeling against the Sinn Feiners throughout Ireland. The Morning Post says it is difficult to understand why the Sinn Fein leaders were released after the Easter rebellion, and condemns granting Home Rule to a population largely controlled by Sinn Feiners. The Daily Telegraph declares that public opinion will demand the ring leaders’ trial and punishment without‘delay. If the Constitutional Nationalists are sincere in disowning sympathy with treason, they surely will not hesitate to swell the chorus of detestation from Allied countries at the infamous Sinn Fein treachery. The Daily Express says the Government has established a convincing prima facie case against the Sinn Feiners, who should be tried publicly. It is possible Ireland will listen to them no more if they are proved guilty in open court, but half Ireland will believe them innocent if they are kept interned without trial. The Central News’ Dublin correspondent says the Government account of the pro-German plot has failed to impress the Nationalists, who declare it does not prove the Sinn Feiners’ connection with the plot. They demand a public trial.