RIOT IN PHŒNIX-PARK.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VI, Issue 241, 11 October 1871, Page 4

RIOT IN PHŒNIX-PARK.

o , . , . One sad occurrence marred at the last the harmonious enjoyment of the Royal visit to Dublin. The Nationalist party, under the leadership of Mr. Smyth, the newly-elected member for Westmeatb, had planned a meeting in the Phoenix-park, to advocate the release of the Fenian prisoners. A letter had previously been addressed to the Princess Louise, who had replied that it was impossible for her to take action on this question, as it could be dealt with only by the Government. The spot chosen for the demonstration was around the base of the Wellington monument, within sight of the Vice-regal Lodge, where tbe Royal party were staying. Notices were issued prohibiting the meeting, but its promoters determined to persevere, and assert their right to the use of the public park. The result was a collision with the police, the first constable who approached being thrown down by the pressure of the crowd, apparently without intention, but afterwards being very cruelly treated, while his comrades, coming to the rescue, used their staves with indiscriminate violence. A fierce fight ensued, and as the people were driven back upon the road, which bad been lately mended, there was much stonethrowing. Mauy people were very seriously injured, aud windows were broken along the route of the retreating crowd. The windows, indeed, of one establishment which the Princes had visited were completely 'smashed. Oue child was killed. The conduct of the police is severely censured ; and the Executive, also, are blamed/for prohibiting the meetiDg. The projectors say that there, is one law for London, and another for Dublin ; one for Hyde-park and Trafalgar-square, and another for the Phoenix- park—and the Times has committed itself to this view. They plead also that tbeir object was a peacable demonstration, in hope of influencing the Royal visitors favorably to their view. On tbe other band, it is stated tbat a special law exists prohibiting political meetings in tbe Phoenix park, and, that the'real object of this movement was to. provoke a hostile demonstration to counterbalance tbe enthusiasm of the, reception given to tbe Princes. The matter will be brought under the notice ;of Parliament. ,■.->