IRELAND

Taranaki Daily News, 19 May 1916, Page 5

IRELAND

THE TRIAL OF CASEMENT. FURTHER EVIDENCE. London, May 17. At the trial of Casement, Sergeant Restwick, of the Irish Constabulary, gave evidence that Bailey asked that * superior officer be called as. soon as ■possible, as he had important information concerning a ship about to land arms in Irelar>l. He offered to give information if released. Inspector Britten, who was summoned, gave evidence that Bailey made his statement ■without a promise to be released, though witness promised to bring the matter under the notice of the authorities. Bailey told the story that a Wilson liner, captured at the commencement of the war, would arrive at Fenit ou Easter Monday, or earlier, with arms, etc As the Attorney-General related, there would be a simultaneous rising in Ireland and an attack on Dublin Castle. Bailey added that he landed with Casement and Monteith from a submarine. The evidence gives indications that the maps emanated from the German War Office. Bailey's military record was good and his conduct was good. COMMITTED FOR TRIAL. Received May 18, 5.5 p.m. London, May 17. Mr. Artemus jones contended that Bailey's statement had been secured by a promise that he would not be punished. Mr. F. E. Smith contended that Bailey was only promised protection. ' Inspector Dickinson admitted that the statement was voluntary. Asked if he had anything to say, Casement huskily replied "No." The prisoners were committed. The Crown intends to hold the trial at the earliest moment, probably early in June. AFTERMATH OF THE REBELLION. COMPENSATION FOR LOSSES. London, May 17. An official statement published in Dublin states that a grant will be made ex gratia in respect of damage. The maximum amount will be the liabilities the insurance companies would have incurred if the damage had been accidental. The grant covers burning and looting. Persons guilty of complicity in the outbreak will not benefit. It is understood that the insurance companies will voluntarily co-operate.

MR. ASQUITH'S VISIT. A SIGNIFICANT STEP. k f Received May IS, 5.5 p.m. London, May 1". The Exchange Telegraph says that Mr. Asquith has been sworn in as an Irish Privy Councillor, thereby joining the Irish Executive. This step gives weight to the suggestion that Mr. Birrell's successor has not been appointed, and at present Mr. Asquith is responsible to the Commons, and the Irish executive for the administration of Ireland. Mr. Tennant, in the Commons, announced that Mr. Asquith returns at the end of the week. Mr. Samuel has promised to submit to the Premier Mr. O'Brien's suggestion that he Bhould visit Cork to inquire into the situation there. THE ROYAL COMMISSKE.. Received May 18, 8.45 p.m. London, May 18. The Royal Commisison to inquire into the Irish rebellion holds it 3 first sitting at Westminster to-morrow. ULSTER AND HOME RULE. Times and Sydney Sun Services. London, May 17. The Belfast Newsletter says that if Mr. Asquith has come to Ireland on a fishing expedition in the hope of landing Irish Unionism in the Home Rule net, he had better have remained in London. The Ulster Unionists will have r.o surrender on the Home Rule question.