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October 1942. Fermanagh Herald.

10-10-1942. SIX-COUNTY DAIRY INDUSTRY. FARMERS’ RESENT MINISTRY’S ACTION. CLOSING OF CREAMERIES. “CHANGES HAD CREATED INDIGNATION ”

The Ministry would get far better and more successful results by acknowledging the education which the farmer had gained by experience, and consult him and secure his co-operation in their new schemes before touching them, said Mr. J. Johnston, secretary of the U.A.O.S., at the annual meeting of Creamery shareholders. Mr. Thos. McCaughey referred to the changes the Ministry was making in the dairying industry, not only in closing such a large number of creameries, but in upsetting the existing transport arrangements for milk suppliers. Milk will now have to be transported by lorry whereas previously 70 to 80 per cent of all the milk in Northern, Ireland was delivered by horse and cart.

Several suppliers present said they had notice from the Ministry to leave their milk at collection points over two miles from their house and away from the creamery, although, their house was only three-quarters of a mile from the creamery. It was unanimously agreed to leave, their milk at the point where they had always left it. Mr. J. Johnston, secretary, U.A.O.S., said the changes that were now being introduced into the industry by the Ministry had created a wave of indignation from farmers throughout the country. Inexperienced officials with little local knowledge of the country had marked out on a map the collection points where suppliers were to leave their milk and they had just heard some of the results. The same thing had happened all over the country.

It had been stated that farmers approved of the scheme because there had not been any protest, but the farmer has learned that if he dared to protest his milk would not be paid for. In his opinion the new transport arrangements to be carried out under the Ministry’s control would require a very large increase in the amount of petrol used, and would ultimately cost a great deal more. The petrol increase was a matter for the Petroleum Board, but the increased cost would have to be paid by the farmer.

With regard to the closing down of 60 creameries in Northern Ireland at 1st October, Mr. Johnston said, it had always been the view of the practical dairyman that the earlier in the morning the milk could be collected at the farm, and the nearer to the depot or creamery at which the milk was to be treated, the better the quality of the milk to be delivered to the consumer. They were told the whole scheme was intended to process the milk at present going to the creameries to make it suitable for the liquid milk market. By closing two-thirds of the creameries the distance to the creameries retained for treatment was greatly extended. The larger quantity to be treated took much more time, and the new system meant that milk would be collected from some points up to 3 o’clock and later.

10-10-1942. NO LICENCE FOR DANCE HALL. “EXCUSE ME ” DANCES A MENACE. Objections were made to the renewal of the licence for dances at Jamestown Hall by Sergeant John McGrath, Drumana, at Carrick-on-Shannon; District Court when the adjourned application of

Mr. John Gaffney, one of the trustees, came before the fortnightly (District Court) for the renewal of the licence.  Last year they got 12 dances and the hours were from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. and the rows did not start until 1-30 or 2 a.m., and accordingly this year they wished to curtail the hours to 1 o’clock. Continuing the applicant said that the committee, tried to settle the row and keep the opposing parties separated but the crowd was so big it was impossible to handle them. There were dances held in August and September and there were no rows at them. He asked for 12 dances 8 p.m. to l a.m.

Sergeant John McGrath, Drumana, said that unless the Guards were present the parties in attendance came to blows, the committee took no action to prevent disorderly scenes and law abiding citizens had to pay for admission while the disorderly crowd were sent out free tickets. Witness said that he saw the free tickets himself being sent out to the disorderly crowd. Sergeant Gallagher said arguments developed in the hall and caused people to crowd around the hall. He had warned the committee not to have “excuse me” dances, as they cause trouble, and there was not a dance, on the occasion of the row, but was an “excuse me.” Mr Keane said that on the evidence of the Sergeant he had no hesitation in refusing the application. Had the hall been governed by a proper committee he would grant the application.

17-10-1942. “BRAINWAVE” SCHEME RETURNS TO AID RED CROSS. It was reported at the meeting of County Fermanagh Committee of Agriculture on Saturday that the amount of money raised in the .Six Counties for the month of August on behalf of the Red Cross. Agricultural Fund in the scheme initiated by Fermanagh of 1d in the £ on cattle passing through the grading centre was £1,111 8s 11d and for the month of July the total raised from the milk deductions (also suggested by Fermanagh) was £188 18s 0d.

Mr. H. A. Porter said he had meant the scheme to include pigs. Major W. O. Nixon (chairman) said the scheme had been satisfactory so far, but if they took the percentage of people that really subscribed to the fund it was very disappointing. Mr. J. N. Carson—It is not brought to their notice. If it is brought to their notice they pay at once.The Chairman said it was printed on the cards. Fermanagh had the highest percentage of any county in the North. Although the fund was doing well, it could do better. Mr. J. E. Fawcett, J.P., thought if it were printed in red ink on the cards it would emphasise it better. Chairman—I think the scheme was a brain-wave of the people on this Committee who suggested it.

17-10-1942. BISHOP MAGEEAN BLESSES NEW CHURCH. The Catholics of the pariah of Aghagallon, three miles from Lurgan, went to Mass in their new £20,000 church for the: first time on Sunday. On Thursday last the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Mageean, had solemnly blessed .and dedicated the building, but on Sunday he formally opened the new edifice! It was a day of celebration in the parish, and everywhere there were manifestations of joy, practically every Catholic house in the district displaying Papal flags. The front of the new building was decorated with streamers of Papal colours. Right Rev. Mgr. Dean O’Hagan, P.P., V.G., celebrated High Mass, and Rev. A. Ryan, D.Ph., D.D., preached. Very Rev. J. Connelly, P.P., thanked the subscribers

17-10-1942. KINAWLEY ROAD NEEDS REPAIRS. At Enniskillen Rural Council meeting Mr. J. R. Crawford moved that the Council repair the old road in Drumbinnis and Corracrawford between Kinawley and Florencecourt. Ten or eleven ratepayers he said had their farms alongside this road which was in a very bad condition. Mr. W, Kelly said he had been informed that it was impossible to use this road. One man had two carts broken on it within two months. The county surveyor (Capt. Charlton) said the road was not in as bad a condition as stated. However, financial provision had been made for it in the estimates. After further discussion it was decided to leave the matter in the hands of the County Surveyor.

17-10-1942. “TYRANNY OPERATING AGAINST MINORITIES’’ BRITISH M.P.s AND STORMONT. Two M.P. in the British House of Commons on Tuesday said that tyranny was operating against minorities in the Six Counties and that there was ’disgraceful discrimination” against Catholics. Mr. McGovern (I.L.P.), when the Prorogation of Parliament Bill was considered in Committee, moved the rejection of a clause dealing with the duration of the Northern Ireland House of Commons, and, urging an election there, said there was overwhelming opposition to the Northern Government taking dictatorial powers over Belfast City Council. Unionists have told me that the Government should be purged of certain elements and undergo a drastic change. “Three or four hundred people are interned there—some without charge or trial for over five years—-and many believe that they are prisoners because of malicious and political intolerance. Tyranny is operating against minorities I there.’’

Mr. Stokes (Lab.) said: “There is disgraceful discrimination against Catholics in Northern Ireland. When six young men were charged with shooting a Belfast policeman, the Government refused to have a single Catholic on the jury. That Government is not fit to carry on.” The amendment was rejected by 220 votes to 6, and after ,a further amendment by Sir Richard Ackland (Ind.) to prolong Parliament for six months instead of 12 had been rejected, the Bill was read a third time.

17-10-1942. LADY SEARCHER AT BALLYSHANNON. Customs searches on the Belleek border have been intensified. Train and bus passengers are all searched—a practice hitherto unknown in that area. A lady searcher has been appointed in Ballyshannon and she was on duty for the first time last week at all the trains. On Saturday evening she carried out a search of all the lady passengers on the last bus leaving Ballyshannon. On both sides there is much greater Customs activity at all posts but the number of seizures from ordinary travellers are comparatively few.

17-10-1942. CLONES COUNCIL FINANCES.  At a special meeting of Clones Urban Council held on Friday night for the  purpose of considering the council’s finances it was unanimously decided to raise a loan of £2.000 by temporary borrowing by way of overdraft accommodation for the months of October-November to enable the payment of arrears of loans to the Commissioners of Public Works and to their treasurers.

17-10-1942.TO LET OR SELL. Farm OF 100 ACRES, good 2 story slated Dwelling-house (with hot and cold water) (Calor Gas}; splendid Office houses, all in good repair, about 1 mile from Irvinestown. The above place can be let for a number of years, with 70.acres if required.—F. SCALLON, Moynaghan, Irvinestown.

17-10-1942.70 PER CENT. OF OAT CROP HARVESTED. FERMANAGH FARMERS’ GOOD WORK. Despite severe harvesting conditions experienced this year, seventy per cent, of the 1942 oat crop has been cut and stacked in County Fermanagh, while ninety per cent. has already been cut stated Mr. W. T. McClintock, B. Agr., War Executive Officer, at a meeting of the County Fermanagh Agricultural Committee in Enniskillen on Saturday afternoon. He said the farmers had, in spite of adverse conditions, done a remarkable job and .their work had been heroic. One man had cut twelve acres of oats with hooks.

At the present time, he said, there were in operation in the county 150 tractors and ploughs, 72 disc harrows, 88 binders, 46 mobile threshing mills, and, in addition, hundreds of horses. Labour, which had been one of their chief problems in the past, would not now be such a problem owing to machinery which had been set up by the Government to direct men to the land and remain on it. Voluntary labour, which had been so successful in other counties, had not been a success in Fermanagh, and in this respect there would remain, a stain on the county which, it was hoped, would be wiped out by an improvement in the matter next year.

The new Tillage Order had been issued, and .farmers had been asked for an increased effort. Subsidy would be paid on four crops in the coming season, i.e., wheat, rye, potatoes and flax. Mr. John Graham complained of the price allowed for potatoes, contending that after the £10 per acre subsidy and the £3 15s 0d per ton fixed price were added together the return did not compare favourably with that received by the “Eire” farmers.

Mr. F. Doherty thought that the reason was to be found in that the price was the same as that fixed, for the English crop. Mr. Graham said farmers in Northern Ireland were not getting a fair deal in this respect. He added that in “Eire’’ the price given for potatoes was £8 per ton. They were not worth digging at the price now fixed in Northern Ireland. Mr. J. O. Rhynehart, of the Ministry of Agriculture, who was pressed for an explanation as to the discrepancy in prices stated he was not in a position to state what the prices were in another part of the country, but pointed out that in ‘Eire’ the scarcity of manures would possibly result in a poorer crop, so that in the end the return per acre in Northern Ireland might be higher. Mr. Graham – I think that is not an answer. Mr. Doherty said that in country places potatoes were not worth moving at £3 15a per ton.

Mr. A. Wilson—Better do away with the potato crop. Mr. McClintock objected to the question as to the price paid in “Eire” stating they were not concerned with it. Mr. J. N. Carson, J.P.—Indeed we are concerned with it. Mr Graham (to the Secretary) — Yes, so, I am not going to let you away with that. We are concerned if a better price is paid across the Border in the Free State. Mr. Graham then spoke of the number of fat cows, which were going across into “Eire,’’ where a better price was being paid than at home. Major W. G. Nixon, D.L., chairman, said he was sure Mr. Rhynehart would bring their views on these two questions before the price fixing authorities.

Mr. J. E. J. Fawcett, J.P., voiced the appreciation of the farming community at the efforts of Mr. McClintock and his staff in promoting the tillage drive in the county. It had been a difficult period but the farmers had come through fairly well on the whole, and the position was much more satisfactory than anyone could have imagined earlier in the season. Mr. J. R. Hamilton, J.P., stated Mr. McClintock did a wonderful job of work, and the farmers had scored a wonderful achievement. Supporting, Mr. Graham said he was still of the opinion, that the Ministry had given the farmers an unfair deal as regards the potato crop. He requested Mr. Rhynehart to convey to the Ministry the Committee’s expression of thanks to their officials. Mr. Rhynehart said he would be delighted to do so. In reply, Mr. McClintock said the farmers of Fermanagh had responded promptly to the appeal for more tillage, and it was only in a very odd instance that the officials encountered any difficulty.

17-10-1942. MINUTES AMENDMENTS. WAR BONUS FOR RELIEVING OFFICER. Mr. James Murphy objected to the signing of the minutes of Enniskillen Board of Guardians on Tuesday on the ground that they stated that an increase in war bonus be granted to Mr. P. MacManus, reliving officer, to bring the grant under this heading up to 5s a week. Mr. Murphy said his proposal on the last Board day was to increase Mr. MacManus’s war bonus by 5s a week which would bring the grant up to 6s 6d a week.  Hon. C. L. Corry, J.P., chairman, stated he had the entry in his book which corresponded to what Mr, Murphy now said. Mr. J. Brown, cleric, said he understood Mr. MacManus was being treated in the same way as Mr. Fee, another relieving officer had been dealt with—i.e., an increase of 3s per week, half payable by the Board and half by the Rural Council.

Mr. Murphy said that what really happened was Mr. Beatty proposed 10s a week, and he seconded. Mr. Thornton proposed. 3s and that was why he (Mr. Murphy) had proposed 5s a week. Mr. J. Beatty, J.P.—I understood the 5s proposal was passed. Mr; James Burns said his recollection of what happened was that the bonus be made up to 5s a week as the Clerk had stated in the minutes. Mr. C- McKeown—Didn’t the Ministry sanction 10s a week for a nurse? Didn’t the ferryman get 10s? I do not see why the Ministry should object to it. Clerk—It is not a question of that at all—it is a case of the minutes being correct. That now makes the bonus a total of 6s 6d per week? Mr. Murphy—Yes. Mr. Beatty—I would like to know why he was only allowed 6s 6d. Clerk—That was the Board’s decision. Mr. Beatty — That was nothing to allow any man. Mr. McKeown—It would buy matches. The minutes were amended as Mr. Murphy suggested.

17-10-1942. GAVE CAR ON LOAN—LICENCE SUSPENDED FOR YEAR. Fines of 40s and costs with suspension of licence for twelve months were imposed on Patrick McGovern Grayport, Belcoo, user of the vehicle, and John McGale, Tattysallagh, Clanabogan, Omagh, owner, when at Irvinestown Petty Sessions on Friday is was proved that McGovern was found using the car which was covered with owner driven insurance only. Constable McKimm was the police witness. McGale said McGovern asked him for the loan of the car and witness acceded to the request. Mr, R. A. Herbert, LL.B., for McGovern, said the latter had walked into a trap. Major Dickie, R.M. (to McGale)—What right have you to give your car and petrol to anyone to drive round the country? He told me he would put the petrol in to do the job. I was always allowed petrol to go to my work.

£10 FINE ON IRVINESTOWN MAN. FALSE REPRESENTATION CHARGE. At Irvinestown Petty Sessions, on Friday, before Major Dickie, R.M., James Keys, of Glenall, Irvinestown, was charged with having on 22nd December, 1941, for the purpose of obtaining a supplementary pension for himself under the Unemployment Assistance Act, made a false representation that, during the seven days up to and including the 18th Dec., 1941, he had not earned more than 5s, whereas during this period he was employed by Messrs. Courtney, Ltd., I, Shipquay Place, Derry, at an average daily wage of 6/11d. The case had been brought at the last Irvinestown, Court but was dismissed without prejudice. Alan McCullagh, an official of the Assistance Board, gave evidence that he received an application from defendant for a supplemental pension on 31st Dec., 1940. He stated that he was in receipt of 10s old age pension and had stock of about one dozen hens. Later defendant wrote to him asking him if he could do something about placing him in employment and witness referred him to the Ministry of Labour.

William Henry Howe, another official, said that on the 26th May he told defendant that information had come into the possession of the Board that he had been employed with Messrs. Courtney and witness gave defendant the dates. Defendant made the following statement: “I was never employed by Messrs. Courtney and have done no work since ceasing to be employed by Mr. Hermon of Necarne Castle, Irvinestown. I am not living on a holding and get no privileges from the owner of the house where I now live. My son Irvine does no work of any kind.’’ Witness identified defendant’s signature on a document produced. John Charles Burkey, of the firm of Messrs. Courtney, said defendant was employed as a labourer by his firm from the 2nd December 1941, till 20th December, 1942. For the week ending 18th Dec., 1941, defendant was paid £2 7s 6d. The week prior to that, he was paid £2 9s 7d and the week before that £1 7s 4d. Mr. E. C. Ferguson, M.P. (defending)’ —Did you pay the defendant?—I paid a “J. Keys.” When Desmond Mahon was called as a witness and did not appear, Mr. J. Cooper, D.L., Crown Solicitor, who prosecuted, said he would ask for a warrant for his arrest if necessary.

Mr. Ferguson submitted that he was entitled to a direction on the grounds that the prosecution had not identified defendant as the man, but his Worship ruled against him on this point. Defendant swore that he got a supplementary pension first about the end of 1940 and drew it from then until the 31st October, 1941, when his book was taken away and kept till 18th December. During that time he had to go and look for some work. He worked for a week and left on the 11th December. Before he went into employment he actually wrote to the authorities and told them he was going to apply for a job. After he had worked for almost three weeks he had to give up. From December, 1941 he had been in receipt of a supplementary pension. He was not working for the week ending 18th December and did not earn more than 5s during that week. There were any amount of Keys in that country besides defendant. Mr. Cooper—You don’t mind telling a little falsehood now and again, do you? No, never to my knowing. Defendant added that he signed his name that he never worked with Messrs. Courtney while he was getting the pension. Mr. Ferguson said he did not see any particularly hidden fraud in the case. Defendant had written to the Labour Exchange and called three times. His Worship said that during the week for which defendant had been prosecuted he thought it had been proved beyond any reasonable doubt that he had actually earned the sum of £2 7s 6d. He imposed a fine of £10 and £2 2s costs, and allowed defendant-two months to pay.

17-10-1942.CARDINAL MacRORY AND THE WAR. PLEA FOR NEGOTIATED PEACE. ADDRESS AT MAYNOOTH. His Eminence Cardinal MacRory, speaking at the annual distribution of prizes in Maynooth College on Tuesday, pleaded for a negotiated peace. He said: – On various occasions I have expressed my hope for a negotiated peace, because I believed that only in this way is there any hope of peace with justice. I am convinced of that more than ever, seeing that cruel feelings are arising on both sides and prisoners are being put in chains. “If the war is fought to a finish,’’ said his Eminence, “there may possibly be a stalemate owing to utter exhaustion on both sides, but if either side win there will be a peace, not of justice, but of vengeance which will but sow the seeds sf future wars.” The Cardinal, continuing, said:—”I am not so foolish as to imagine that anything I can say will have any effect. However, I feel it a duty to say something.

17-10-1942. ENNISKILLEN BOARD AND QUESTION OF REPAIRS. When an account from a local garage proprietor for repairs to the ambulance came before Enniskillen Board of Guardians on Tuesday for payment, Mr. J. Brown, Clerk, said Mr. J. Cathcart, the ambulance driver, was not prepared to certify some of the items. Mr. Cathcart said some of the items were not in his book in which he kept a record of all repairs to the ambulance. The explanation was this: On 15th, January last Mr. Barton’s man was employed to bring a patient into the Hospital in this ambulance, he (Mr. Cathcart) being out at the time in the other ambulance. An accident happened to the ambulance in charge of Mr. Barton’s (the garage proprietor) driver. On one occasion since it would not start. He thought himself these repairs were made necessary by the accident. The ambulance never had been in order since. It would not charge until it was driven at 35 miles per hour—a speed too high for a vehicle of the kind, it should start charging at at least 20 m.p.h. The repairs were, therefore, in his opinion chargeable to the insurance company. He had some of the items of the account in his book.

Mr, Murphy—Do you keep an account as well as Mr. Barton? Mr. Cathcart—Everything I get is kept in my book. Mr. Murphy—Mr. Barton’s account does not correspond with yours? Mr. Cathcart — No sir. Mr. Murphy—Very well, I would not pay him. Mr. Beatty-Was it sent back to Mr. Barton? Mr. Cathcart—No; it is here for payment. Mr. Beatty—Can’t you send it back? Mr. Cathcart—No; it is a matter for the Board. Mr. Kelly—Mr. Brown will ask Mr. Barton, about it and get the thing squared up. Mr. Murphy—Did the insurance company pay for the accident? . Clerk—We have not got any bill for it anyway.

Mr. Murphy—The ambulance should be put right and the insurance company should be informed accordingly. Mr. Beatty—Mr. Barton’s attention should have been drawn to it. Mr. Murphy—That ambulance is giving far too much trouble here and there is something wrong somewhere. There has always been trouble with it since it came here. Mr. Beatty—When you found it not right, why didn’t you draw his attention to it? Mr. Cathcart—I am tired drawing his attention to it. The Chairman, (Hon. C. L. Corry) was proceeding to the next business when Mr. Murphy said: We are here as representatives of the ratepayers; the ratepayers’ money is being paid away and we are entitled to know what it is being paid for. I am not at all satisfied. Write to the insurance company and tell them the ambulance is not giving satisfaction. Mr. Beatty — Draw Mr. Barton’s attention to it. Chairman — The Clerk is going to do that. Mr. Murphy—The insurance company is the body.

17-10-1942.ILLEGAL USE OF COUPONS. STATEMENTS IN BELLEEK CASES. CHARGES AGAINST MERCHANTS. Eight summonses alleging the illegal use of coupons were heard by Major Dickie, R.M., at Belleek Petty Sessions on Tuesday. John Stephens, draper, Main Street, Belleek, and who also has a business in Ballyshannon, was summoned (1) for having, at Belleek between 7th and 16th March, 1942, without the authority of a licence granted by the Board of Trade and for the purpose of obtaining rationed goods, made use of rationed documents or coupons other than those issued to him or those surrendered to him; (2) had in, his possession, with intent to obtain goods, rationed documents or coupons issued to another person; and (3) using for the purpose of obtaining rationed goods, rationed documents, or coupons which did not bear the name, address and National Registration number of the person or persons to whom they were issued. Michael McGrath, Main, Street, Belleek, was charged with aiding and abetting in the commission of these offences. Thomas Daly, grocer, Main St., Belleek, was charged with transferring rationed documents or coupons, and Michael McGrath was summoned for aiding and abetting. Mr. R. A. Herbert, LLb., defended.

Mr. J. P. Getty, solicitor for the Board of Trade, who brought the prosecutions, said his instructions were that Daly had quite a number of customers who left their ration books with him. His Worship would remember that certain ration books which were issued in the first instance with regard to food had 26 margarine coupons in them. Those coupons were not valid and were not used. At the 1st June, 1941, when clothing was rationed for the first time, these: margarine coupons were then to be used for the purpose of acquiring clothing. Their case was that Daly, having got all these margarine coupons from his customers he transferred them to Stephens or McGrath (who managed Stephens’ shop in Belleek), or both. If he did so it was an offence.

He (Mr. Getty) was going to call a number of witnesses to prove that they left these margarine coupons with Daly and gave him no instructions or authority to transfer them to Stephens or anybody else and they did not use them themselves. A quantity of these coupons was sent to Stephens’ wholesaler in Belfast, Messrs. Moffitt and Co., whose agent would tell the Court that 500 coupons were delivered by Stephens to him in return for goods to be supplied. Having got those coupons, the practice was for Messrs. Moffitt to send them to the Post Office and they in turn sent them to the Board of Trade, When they got to the Board of Trade these margarine coupons were found in the bundle, and this started the inquiries. Miss Rosalie Aiken, chief assistant in the Food Office, Irvinestown, gave evidence that ration books containing margarine coupons were issued to a number of people, whom she named.

Sadie Agnes Keown said that Daly was her grocer, and she received .ration books for herself, and three daughters which she gave to her grocer. She did not use the margarine coupons, but her husband used some and bought clothes in Stephens’ using the margarine coupons for the purpose. William Dolan said he never purchased clothing with the margarine coupons and did not authorise his grocer to hand them on. Ernest W. Hall, area manager, of the Board of Trade, Belfast, said the coupons came to him from the Post Office and included margarine coupons. Statements made to Sergt. J. D. Cochrane by Stephens, McGrath and Daly having been read,

McGrath gave evidence and said he could not say when the coupons came into his establishment. He was not given the particulars of the coupons before the prosecution came on, and consequently he was unable to make any inquiries. Sadie Keown’s, husband left in margarine coupons in exchange for clothes, and whatever he handed in would be sent to Moffitt. Dolan’s father and also Daly bought clothes from him. He had some difficulty in getting any regulations and ultimately got part of the regulations from a traveller. He had written five times previously to the Board of Trade and never got an answer from them. So far as he could, he carried out all these relevant regulations. John James Dolan said he did the buying for all of his family, and used his son’s coupons too.

His Worship dismissed the charge against Daly and also the charge against McGrath for aiding and abetting him. Regarding the other case, he said he found it fully proved. He fined Stephens 20/- and 10/- costs on each of the charges of making use of rationed documents other than those issued to him and using  them for the purpose of obtaining rationed goods. McGrath was fined £10 and £3 3s 0d costs for aiding and abetting in the commission of the first offence, and 120/- and three guineas costs for aiding, and abetting in the second offence. The other summonses against Stephens and McGrath were dismissed without prejudice.

17-10-1942. £5 FINE AT BELLEEK. HAD FIVE STONES OF TWENTY SIX COUNTY SUGAR. £5 FINE AT BELLEEK. James Johnston, Aghamuldoney, County Fermanagh, was charged at Belleek Petty Sessions, on Tuesday, before Major Dickie, R.M., with having on 28th May knowingly harboured five stones of sugar imported from the 26-Counties into the Six Counties with intent to evade the payment of Customs duty thereon. Mr. J. Cooper, Crown Solicitor, prosecuting, told the court that in the defendant’s house the police found five stones of sugar, which was of 26-County origin. Mr. P. T. Flanagan, LL.B., who pleaded guilty, in mitigation of the sentence said that if it were possible for defendant to pay duty on the sugar he would very willingly have done so. In certain seasons of the year defendant had special work to do on his farm. He could not get any labour in the Six Counties, and had to get a man from the Free State, This man had no ration card and during the time his application was in for one, by arrangement between him and the defendant they brought over this sugar, for which they paid 5/3d a stone in the Free State, whereas it was obtainable in the .Six Counties for 3/6d per stone. It was really a matter of trying to get over a personal inconvenience. Saying that he did not think it was a bad case, his Worship imposed a fine of £5.

£15 FINE FOR SMUGGLING SPIRITS. John Farry, Monendogue, was charged of knowingly harbouring ten bottles of Irish whiskey, one bottle of Sherry, and one bottle of port wine imported from the 26 Counties into the Six-Counties! Mr. R. A. Herbert, L.L.B., (defending) said that defendant lived with his father and brother on a small farm on the mountain side. His father was an invalid, over 80 years of age; and they were constantly afraid of him dropping off when they would not have any stimulants to give him. Defendant said he hold the police it was for his brother in Belfast. That was not true. None of the local people would sell him (defendant) a bottle of whiskey. Some of the whiskey had been in the house since Christmas- He collected it from time to time and brought it over with him. Mr. Cooper-—-Were you going over the Border on different days and bringing it back—accumulating it?—-No. His Worship—There’s no proof he was dealing in it on a very large scale. I think £15 would meet it.

LORRY DRIVER FINED AT IRVINESTOWN. “The lorry came round Flack’s corner 40 at m.p.h. without slackening speed.” “My lorry is governed down to 25 m.p.h.” These two conflicting statements of evidence, the first one by a constable and the second by the driver of the lorry were given at Irvinestown Petty Sessions on Friday when District Inspector P. Walshe summoned Charles McQuaid, of Drogan, for driving a motor lorry in Irvinestown on 7th Sept. without due care and attention and without reasonable consideration for other users of the highway. Constable McKimm proved the summons and was corroborated by Constable Bradley, neither of whom heard a horn sounded. Defendant said he sounded the horn and only accelerated when he got round the corner. His lorry was governed down to 25 m.p.h. Major Dickie, R.M., said the two constable were definite that defendant came round without due care and he imposed a fine of 10s and costs.

TWICE TORPEDOED MERCHANT NAVY MAN FINED £5. A wireless operator in the Merchant Navy, who, according to his solicitor, had been twice torpedoed and had also been in a tussle with the ‘Deutschland’ appeared at Irvinestown Petty Sessions on Friday, before Major Dickie, R.M., on a charge of being concerned in a fraudulent attempt at evasion of payment of Customs’ duty on two bottles of spirits, at Kesh, on 28th July, imported from “Eire” into Northern Ireland.

Defendant was Vincent Mahon, of Mill St., Irvinestown, and Mr. J. Cooper, D.L., Crown Solicitor, prosecuting, said a Customs officer found defendant sitting reading a book in a third class carriage of the train. He asked defendant if he had any articles to declare and he did not reply. He then asked defendant, what he had in his pockets: and defendant produced. two camera films and said that was all he had got.

The Customs officer, proceeded Mr, Cooper, was very suspicious of defendant as this pockets seemed bulky and ordered him to stand up till he searched him, and found a bottle of whiskey in each of his trousers pockets. When asked why he did not declare the spirits defendant told the officer to “go to hell you and the spirits;” When asked to furnish proof he admitted he had not paid any duty and absolutely decline to recognise the Customs authorities in any way.  His Worship—In what way? Mr. Cooper-He said he did not recognise them. His Worship — A very unfortunate position, with two bottles of whiskey in his pockets.

Mr. E. C. Ferguson, LL.B., M.P., defending, said they admitted having the two bottles of whiskey. The circumstances were these Defendant was a wireless operator employed by the Marconi Company with the Merchant Navy. Since the outbreak of war he had been torpedoed twice and on one occasion had been in a tussle with the ‘Deutschland.’ As a result of these sea activities he had been invalided home at the end of July by the Company. He (Mr. Ferguson) was instructed by defendant that he had wanted these two bottles of whiskey to send to a friend of his. Defendant was a decent fellow who was now fit and ready to return to duty and was awaiting a call to his ship. Mr. Cooper said if defendant .had adopted a different attitude he would have been fined there and then. The duty on the spirits was £l 15s 5d. Mr. Ferguson said in the circumstances perhaps it was excusable. “I am asked,” he said, “to apologise for anything, that he did wrong. His Worship said defendant knew quite well he should not have done this. However, in view of his record he imposed a fine of £5.

SUNDAY CARTING DISAPPROVED. A meeting, under the auspices of the Six-Co. Farmers’ Union was held in the Townhall, Enniskillen on Saturday afternoon, when representatives from all over County Fermanagh attended. Addresses on the policy of the Union were given by Mr. H. Jamison, General Secretary ; Mr, J. H. Barbour, Organiser; Mr. Hughes. Farmers’ Union Insurance Company, and Rev. R. J. M‘Ilmoyle, Dervock. Resolutions were passed, viewing with apprehension the milk marketing scheme so far as payments were concerned and a unanimous expression of opinion was voiced against the carting of milk on Sundays. The main purpose of the meeting was the formation of new branches and progress in this direction was made.

FELLOW INTERNEE’S TRIBUTE TO CAHIR HEALY, M.P. By Frederick Bowman, Internee, Brixton Prison, London and 5, Bradley Place, Eastbank St., Southport; Lancashire, England.

TILL IRELAND UNITE IN PEACE

The years, untried, in prison passed,

Have made impressions sure to last,

Many are grim, but, I’ve a few

For which my gratitude are due.

One patriot I’m proud I’ve met

While tangled in the prison net,

Is CAHIR HEALY—always kind,

Whose noble heart and cultured mind

Inspires respect and strengthen all

Whose courage might incline to fall.

His fine example—smiles of cheer

Make prison walls less gloomy here

His shrewd remarks and sound advice:

Confer a boon beyond all price

On those whose prison .life he shades,

Smoothing their madness, easing cares.

His land and loved ones far away,

Are in his gentle thoughts all day.

But helping others makes him try

To keep suppressing any sigh.

A man of wit and worth and charm.

Sincere and steadfast, firm and calm;

To death for Ireland he would go—

This man whom I’m so proud to know.

Peace for the world is what I claim

And Healy’s object is the same.

His work for Ireland will not cease.

Till Ireland can unite in peace.

SIX-COUNTY VACANT SEATS. STORMONT REJECTS LABOUR MOTION. A motion by Mr. H. Midgley (Labour, Willowfield) at Stormont on Tuesday which asked that writs for vacant Parliamentary seats be issued not later than three months from date of vacancy was defeated by 24 votes to one. The  motion was described by the Minister of Agriculture as the most reactionary that had ever been brought.

 

1942. Fermanagh Herald.

19-9-1942. HILL-TOP MONUMENT TO COONIAN’S FAITH. NEW ST. JOSEPH’S CHURCH DEDICATED AND OPENED. CEREMONY BY THE RIGHT REV. MONSIGNOR KEOWN. Raising its beautiful Irish Romanesque outlines on the crest of a hill overlooking a valley wherein between two hills is hidden a poor rude structure of the Penal days, which it succeeds, the new St. Joseph’s Church, Coonian, Brookeborough, solemnly dedicated and opened on Sunday by Right Rev. Monsignor Dean Keown, P.P., Carrickmacross, Vicar Capitular of Clogher Diocese, will be a landmark in South Fermanagh. It will serve 180 families of that mountainous portion of Aughavea parish whose ancestors were driven to those hills from the rich plains below by the invader.

Possessed of little but a strong faith and perseverance, the people have survived and flourished. Nearly a thousand of them on Sunday stood proudly by the new St. Joseph’s looking down the vista of years to the beginnings of the little edifice whose walls are tottering with the weight of age in the Valley. .It was with them through their trials and the trials of their fathers, and though for the past half century its damp, sodden walls and unheated interior held little of comfort, it must be with not a little tinge of regret that they part company from that rude home of their faith which has been hallowed by the prayerful gatherings and worship of their ancestors.

DAWNING OF HAPPIER DAY. But the faith has conquered, through many trials and bitter persecution, in this district, and with the dawn of a happier day in which worship .may be public and in which, through hard work, the people have attained to a reasonable standard pf comfort and prosperity, it was only right that the ancient and true faith should once more have its centre in a worthy home on some crowning mount. In July, 1959, the great work was undertaken. In August of the following year the foundation stone was laid, and on Sunday the people saw more than three years of strenuous and self-sacrificing effort brought to a happy consummation.

THE NEW CHURCH. St. Joseph’s will accommodate over 500 people. It is designed in the Irish Romanesque style, with, a deep semi-circular apse and an imposing tower rising almost fifty feet on the Gospel side of the building. The magnificent site overlooks the wide sweep of valley between Coonian and Colebrooke. The building was designed, by Messrs. J. Donnelly and Sons, architects, Enniskillen, and was erected under their supervision by Father Patrick McQuaid, P.P. A very considerable amount of the labour required was given voluntarily by the parishioners, and the site was given free of all charge by Mr. Dillon, a parishioner who lives close by. The cost totalled about £7,000 of which most has already been paid. Owing to the restrictions caused by the war, it was not possible to provide altars, communion rails, seats and other furnishings or to complete the grounds about the church. These must await the end of the war.

AUGHAVEA PARISH IMPROVEMENTS. Since Father McQuaid’s appointment to the parish over nine years ago, he has completely reconstructed Brookeborough parish church and erected new schools there. These buildings are convenient to one another and surrounded by Church property. He has also been responsible for the provision of a new cemetery at Brookeborough and of a new cemetery adjoining the present Coonian Church. This cemetery was solemnly consecrated on Monday by Dean Keown. Father McQuaid’s other works include the reconstruction of the parish priest’s residence and also the curate’s residence at Coonian.

THE OFFICIATING CLERGY. Sunday’s ceremony commenced at. 11 a.m. Assisting the Vicar Capitular at the dedication and opening ceremony were Very Rev. E. O’Hart, P.P., Tempo, as deacon; and Very, Rev. F. J. Donnelly, P.P., Lisnaskea, as sub-deacon, with Rev; T. J. Meegan, C.C., Enniskillen, as master of ceremonies. Dean Keown performed the ceremony of opening the church, with a key presented to him by Mr. Donnelly. Solemn High Mass, at which Dean Keown presided, was celebrated by Rev. P. McGloin, chaplain, Monaghan County Hospital, formerly curate at Coonian, with Father O’Hart as deacon, Father Donnelly sub-deacon and Father Meegan master of ceremonies. Also present were Father McQuaid and Rev. J. McMahon, C.C., Coonian. .

STATIONS OF THE CROSS ERECTED. After Mass, the Stations of the Cross were blessed and erected by Dean Keown, assisted by Father Meegan, and the ceremonies, which lasted almost three hours concluded with Solemn Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament imparted, by the Vicar Capitular. The music of the Mass, the Stabat Mater and the hymns, for Benediction were provided by the combined choirs of Coonian and Clogher, under Sisters Collette and Ephraim, of Clogher Convent.

PASTOR’S TRIBUTE. Addressing the people after Mass, Father McQuaid said, it was providential that a very great friend of Dr. Owens, a Bishop of Clogher who first saw the light in Coonian, should in the person of Dean Keown perform that solemn ceremony. The Church was very beautiful, but to his mind nothing was too good for the people of Brookeborough, who had been magnificent in their support. He had not paid one penny interest on money since he began the building. On one Monday morning he had not a penny piece, and he was wondering if he would, have to borrow money out of the bank, but by Saturday he had almost enough to pay the workmen. All work was done by direct labour. It was a privilege to have Monsignor Keown with them to perform the ceremony. Monsignor Keown knew some amongst the congregation, whom he had also known long ago in the spring-time of life when he was a curate in Coonian. Father McQuaid thanked all who had assisted in the erection of the Church, particularly Mr, Donnelly, the architect, who had designed that very beautiful church. It was well heated and would be comfortable for the people.

MONSIGNOR KEOWN. Monsignor Keown said he regarded it as a great privilege and a very solemn duty to assist in the dedication of this beautiful building to the honour and glory of God. It was just 54 years since he celebrated Mass in Coonian. It was his first curacy, .His was a very short stay, there, but it was long enough to learn to love and admire the people. Many, changes had taken place since, but there was no change in the strong faith of Coonian. Fifty years ago the old church was not suitable for its purpose, but circumstances were against the people. Theirs was a struggle for a bare existence, and church buildings and schools had to be put aside. A happier day had come and they had now a church that was a joy and delight to the district, the parish and, indeed, the whole diocese. Their late Bishop looked forward with great joy and happiness to performing that ceremony in Coonian. God had ordained otherwise, but he was sure Dr. McKenna was amongst those looking down on their ceremony and uniting with them in their day of joy. Dr. Owens, too, he was sure, was united with them in their happiness. He had been associated with the late Dr. Owens for many years and knew of his very deep interest iii the people of his native Coonian.

Their Church would be a rallying-place for the people for all time. It had been opened and the lamp had been lit before the adorable Sacrament on the Altar. It was how a centre for worship in the district, and he was sure, the people would take an interest and delight in going there and thanking God for the graces and blessings bestowed on them. The church was God’s own house. He loved it. “He loved the beauty of His house and the place where His glory dwelleth.” He loved this Church, which was a new proof of the love of the people of Coonian for God, and He would abide there and bless them and their children and their children’s children for the great work they had done. The Monsignor very warmly congratulated the people, and hoped the people would always remain the good and faithful Catholics they had in the past always shown themselves to be.

19-9-1942. JAIL FOR CYCLE THEFT. CASE AT CLONES COURT. At Clones District Court, on Wednesday of last week, before District Justice Lavery, Thomas Clarke, labourer, Muff, Cootehill, Co. Cavan, was charged with the larceny of a bicycle, value £12, the property, of Thomas, McFadden, Cornasuaus, Co. Cavan on September 14. Defendant was remanded in custody from a special court, and admitted the offence. Supt. B. O’Boyle, Bailieboro’ gave evidence. Accused was sentenced to three months imprisonment.

19-9-1942. BUTTER FOR EXPORT. George Scott, Crivelea, Clones, was fined £7 4s for bringing to a place for export a quantity of whiskey and 21b. of butter at Clones on July 20. Defendant pleaded guilty. Mr. J. B. Murphy (solicitor for defendant) said his client was not normal, and his clergyman had written to the Revenue Commissioners about him. When he came in to see him (Mr. Murphy) he burst into tears. Defendant was unfit to work. He could not pay the fine sought for and was not fit to go to jail. The Justice imposed the fine as stated, which was the penalty sought fo.

19-9-1942. CHEMIST’S ASSISTANT SUMMONED. UNINSURED MOTOR BICYCLE. . A young chemist’s assistant, John Douglas Irwin, of 42, Belmore St., Enniskillen, was charged at Enniskillen petty Sessions on Monday with using a, motor cycle on 13th August last, without being insured. Constable Walker said that defendant produced a certificate of insurance which had expired on 31st July. Defendant stated that he knew it was out of date but he had only gone for a short run to test the bicycle. Mr. J, Hanna, for defendant, said that defendant had not been using the bicycle for some time, and he intended to sell it and forgot to take out, the insurance. Major Dickie, R.M., imposed a fine of £4 and 2s costs, with automatic suspension of defendant’s licence for 12 months.

26-9-1942. JOTTINGS. Boho Sports.—Boho Sports Committee passed a resolution thanking the following who sent cash and prizes to the sports Mrs. McKinstry, Tullyholvin P.E.S.; Mrs. Rose A. Magee, Cornerk P.E.S.; Mr. J. J. Maguire, Derrygonnelly.

Monea Sports.—Postponed because of unfavourable conditions, Monea sports will be held this Sunday at Tullynargy. There has been a good entry, it is under-stood for the North Fermanagh Donkey Derby, an innovation which should prove a most attractive item. There is a big supporting programme, including a football, challenge match.

COMING EVENTS. Sunday, 27th Sept. Ceilidhe, Killyrover Hall, Monea Sports at Tullymargy. Dance, Foresters’ Hall, Enniskillen. Dance, A.O.H. Hall, Arney. Sunday, 4th Oct.—Dance, Tullyholvin School.

26-9-1942. CO. FERMANAGH CIVIL DEFENCE SERVICES. A Civil Defence Mobile Reinforcement Column, paid a visit to Ballinamallard on Monday evening, consisting of Wardens, Ambulance, First Aid Party, Rescue Party and a section of the; National Fire Service. The column was under the command of Mr. J. Lusted, County Training Officer, and the air raid incidents were under the control of Mr. Cecil Taylor, Chief Warden and Controller, Enniskillen. The practice, which consisted of reporting of incidents, treatment and removal of casualties, firefighting by the N.F.S. and rescue from a three storey house of supposedly trapped casualties, was carried out under, extremely difficult conditions.

The practice was under the general supervision of Capt. W. R. Shutt, M.C., County Civil Defence Officer, and his deputy, Major J. A. Henderson. After the exercise all the C.D. services proceeded to the Archdale Memorial Hall where they, were addressed by the County Civil Defence Officer, who paid tribute to the keenness of the Ballinamallard Volunteers and to their Chief Warden.

10-10-1942. FROM MOUNTJOY TO CRUMLIN. BICYCLE THIEF SENTENCED AT ENNISKILLEN. “I may say that in every case of larceny of a bicycle I intend to impose imprisonment,” said Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday. He was dealing with a charge of the larceny of a bicycle by Thomas McGovern, of no fixed address, the machine being the property of Desmond Leonard, Garvary. Sergt. Kerr, Letter, gave evidence that on the 25th Sept. defendant was brought to the barracks by an R.U.C. patrol and witness asked him where he got the bicycle he had in his possession. After caution defendant stated he left Enniskillen at 11 p.m. on the previous day to go to James Chambers’ house in the Tempo district. When he got to Garvary he went to the house of Cahil Leonard, and without being given authority took away a bicycle the subject of the present charge. He then proceeded to Chambers’ house and was admitted by Edward Chambers, who said the ball bearings of his (defendant’s) bicycle he had given Annie Chambers, his sister, were broken. Defendant added that he intended to take up a job at Pettigo and used Leonard’s bicycle to get there, intending to leave it back. Desmond Leonard said that on the 23rd Sept. he left his bicycle at home and missed it two days later. He gave nobody authority to take it away. He had known defendant through seeing him at dances. Defendant, on being asked if he wished to give evidence, refused to go into the witness box but said his own bicycle was still at Chambers’ house.

In reply to the R.M., Head-Constable Poots, who prosecuted for D.I. Walshe, said that on the 25rd Sept. defendant was coming out of Mountjoy Jail after doing six months for the larceny of cattle. He had another conviction for the larceny of a horse in the 26 Counties. The R.M.—You have had two previous convictions, You had no right to take this man’s bicycle and I can only regard it as ordinary larceny. Six months’ imprisonment: His Worship then made the remark quoted at the outset.

10-10-1942. £10 FINE ON FARMER. EXCESSIVE CLAIM FOR POTATO SUBSIDY. What he described as a moderate penalty of £10, with five guineas costs, was imposed by Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday in a case in which George Johnston, a young farmer, of Derrykeeghan, Enniskillen, was summoned by the Ministry of Agriculture for making an alleged false claim in respect of subsidy on his potato crop.

Mr. James Cooper Crown Solicitor, prosecuting, said defendant claimed for eight acres, whereas he only had 4 acres 3 roods under potatoes. The amount involved was £32 10s. Samuel Johnston, Government Inspector, produced a statement alleged to have been given him by defendant on 30th June in which he (defendant) said the claim was completed and signed by him on the 13th June, and posted to the Ministry of Agriculture. It was witnessed by Constable McCreevy. The alleged statement went on: “I must have been wrong in my evidence of the measurements. I own a field which is about five acres, but there was an acre or more in turnips. The remainder is planted with potatoes, except for a few drills of cabbage. The other field belongs to my mother, in which have potatoes planted. I reckoned it contained three acres I had a notion of putting in potatoes in the whole field belonging to myself, but the last amount of potatoes did not grow. I had to plant turnips.” Witness added that in consequence of very exaggerated claims the Ministry had found it necessary to institute proceedings.

In reply to Mr. Ferguson, defending, witness said most of the claims sent in were approximate, but it was unusual to find such discrepancies in this instance. He did not think it was unusual for farmers to measure their potato plots before sending in their claims. It was true to say there had been a severe drought in the months of May and June, and there had in consequence, been misses in the potato crop, but he had not heard of wholesale failures in fields. Mr. Corr, Ministry’s Inspector, gave evidence of measuring the plot in Derrykeeghan field (defendant’s property), and he arrived at 2a. 3r. There was a slight doubt, the benefit of which was given by his superior officer (Mr. Gillespie) to defendant, and it was altered to three acres. In the Ballydoolagh field the potato acreage was estimated at la. 3r. Mr. Gillespie corroborated. To Mr. Ferguson, he admitted there were slight discrepancies in most cases. Last year in addition to the police inspection report, there was a ten per cent check by the Ministry on subsidy claims. His Worship-You complain this was grossly exaggerated?

Witness—Yes. Defendant, in evidence said he owned the farm in Derrykeeghan, and he cultivated his mother’s land in Ballydoolagh. He understood that the Ordnance Survey map gave the area of the Derrykeeghan field as 5½ acres. In the Ballydoolagh field, which was 4½acress in extent, he estimated there were three acres of potatoes, which was the acreage, allowed by Mr. Ritchie, Agricultural Officer for the county when he inspected the corn crop. Part of the potato crop in Derrykeeghan failed, and he pulled out the tubers, knowing there would be no result, and sowed turnips. Questioned by Mr. Cooper, witness said he did not consider he was overpaid, subsidy on last year’s corn crop. The claim was accurate as far as he knew, or he would not have submitted it. Richard Crozier, surveyor, estimated that the total acreage under potatoes in the Derrykeeghan field was 2a 3r. l5p, and in the one at Ballydoolagh la. 3r. 19p a total of 4a. 2r.34p. The Derrykeeghan field was very deceptive, as the Ordnance Survey measurement were larger than the field now actually was. Mr. Ferguson submitted defendant did not know the claim was false, and that he had no intention of defrauding the Ministry. The Ministry’s inspectors, unable to measure every field they inspected, had to take their measurements from the Ordnance Survey.

His Worship said that apparently defendant had guessed the area of the two fields, but guessed in his own favour. It was quite clear he did not inform the Ministry about the potatoes not growing, and putting in the turnips as a substitute. Mr. Ferguson—I do not know that he would be entitled to inform them. The (the Ministry) give the subsidy whether the potatoes grow or not. One of the inspectors was rising to speak when his Worship remarked that some farmers who did not even bother to take out their potatoes, were paid £10 per acre by a generous Government. He did not say defendant, whom he believed was a good farmer, did that. He did not think defendant really realised what he was doing. He must, however, have known that he was making a claim he could not possibly substantiate. It was not a bad case, and the penalty he had in mind was not substantial. His Worship ruled as already stated.

10-10-1942. AMERICAN SOLDIER’S DEATH. LORRY AND “ PEEP ” COLLIDE. COURT SEQUEL. There was a sequel to a fatal accident at Silverhill, near Enniskillen, at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday, when, arising out of an accident in which an American soldier lost his life, John J. Bannon, of Mountdrum, Lisbellaw, was charged with having driven a lorry without due care and attention.

Bannon had been driving a lorry laden with about four tons of stones from Blaney quarry on 8th August when he came into collision with a Peep (an American Army vehicle). As a result of injuries received in the collision one of the passengers in the Peep—an American soldier—died next day. The only evidence tendered for the Crown was given by Sergeant Henderson, inspector of public vehicles, and Constable. A. Corry; and Head-Constable Poots said that the accident had been reported to the American authorities with a view to having the other driver brought before their Court. Bannon said that as he came to the bend on the road his lorry was in second gear, travelling at a speed of between seven and ten miles per hour, and about I5 feet from the grass verge on his own side. He saw the Peep corning along and the accident happened suddenly. He thought the other vehicle had plenty of room to pass. Dismissing the charges on the merits, Major Dickie, P.M., said he was extremely sorry that the death of a member of the American forces occurred as a result of the accident, and he was sure, they all tendered their sympathy to his relatives. Mr. Isaac Copeland, K.C. (defending), said that Bannon felt it very much. His Worship—I am quite sure he docs. Head-Constable Poots also tendered sympathy on behalf of the police force.

10-10-1942. BROOKEBOROUGH COURT CASES “Most Inveterate Smuggler.” Owen Beggan, clothes dealer, of Mullinavale described by Mr. Cooper, Crown Solicitor, as a most inveterate smuggler on both sides of the Border, was, at Brookeboro’ Petty Sessions on Tuesday, fined £20 for harbouring with intent to evade Customs duties, prohibited goods, including two men’s serge suits, 9 pairs’ men’s woollen underpants, 9 pairs men’s braces, 1 shirt, 1 aluminium kettle, and 5 dozen razor blades. Defendant admitted purchasing the clothing in “Eire.”

10-10-1942. ASSAULT CHARGE. When James Maguire, labourer, Corrylongford, charged Charles Boyd, farmer, of Tattymickle, with assault, Boyd alleged Maguire was continually denouncing the English, and that, declared the I.R.A. had not shot enough policemen. He also alleged that Maguire refused to recognise a British court. He (Boyd) admitted striking him in self-defence, and his Worship ordered him to pay £1 compensation to Maguire. Maguire denied the allegations made by Boyd.

10-10-1942. ALL NIGHT VIGIL AT PUBLIC HOUSE. ENNNISKILLEN LICENSING CHARGE. An all-night vigil by police outside a public house in Enniskillen was described at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday, when Richard Johnston, publican, Market St., Enniskillen, was charged under the usual five counts with breaches of the licensing laws, and with failing to admit the police. Evidence was given by Sergt. Sherrard that at 12.45 a.m. on 26th Sept. when passing defendant’s licensed premises he heard the sound of voices speaking in a very low tone. He saw a light around the edge of the window blind at the bar and heard the sound of some liquid running. He knocked loudly on the door and shouted in through the letter box ‘‘Police on public house duty. Open up,” and heard the sound as if someone was walking on tiptoe. After that all was silent. Witness described how the police then kept the premises under observation all night and the demand for admittance to the premises was repeated at intervals. At 8.30 a.m. when he went into a house next door to the licensed premises he found a man in the kitchen and as a result of what the man told him he went to the rear yard and on examining the wall dividing the yard from the licensed premises he found fresh scrapes on the bricks on top of the wall, where there was a green slime.

At 8.45 a.m. when he returned to defendant’s licensed premises, defendant’s wife admitted him and he found defendant in bed. When asked to account for the long delay in admitting witness, defendant said he did not know he was out there it all. When told about seeing the light in the bar at 12.45 a.m. defendant said “That is a lie.” Witness brought the other man to the premises and read his statement. The man said he admitted being on the premises, and when asked if he had anything to say, defendant replied: “I know nothing about him-nothing.

Mr. E. C: Ferguson, LL.B., M.P. (for defendant)—More people than you are knocking at public house doors these times?—I can quite believe that. Witness said he did not think the marks on the wall had been made by a cat. Constables Walker and Williams also gave evidence. The man found in the adjoining house said that he met defendant on the night in question and went to his house to have a yarn with him. He was in defendant’s house about five minutes when he heard a knock and he went out the back and over the wall. His Worship—That’s Mr. Ferguson’s cat. (Laughter). Witness said that he stopped in the yard all night. Defendant denied that the man found by the police had been on his premise that night and he did not hear anyone shouting through the letter box or door. Asked about the knocking, he said they were fed up with knocking. His Worship fined defendant 20s and costs for failing to admit the police, and dismissed the other five charges.

10-10-1942. POLICE SERGEANT ASSAULTED. ENNISKILLEN INCIDENT. LISNASKEA MAN FINED. An assault on a police sergeant at a dance in the Townhall, Enniskillen was described at Enniskillen Petty Sessions an Monday, before Major Dickie, R.M., when Patrick Maguire, of Aghadrenan, Lisnaskea, was charged with disorderly behaviour, on 25th September and with assaulting Sergeant R. Torrance, R.U.C. An application was also made to have defendant bound to the peace.

Sergeant Torrance gave evidence that when on duty at the Diamond at 10.40 p.m. on 25th Sept. a complaint was made by a boy that he had been beaten by a stranger in the Townhall lavatory. He went with the boy into the Townhall, where there was a dance in progress and the boy pointed out defendant who was accompanied by six or seven American soldiers. He was adopting a fighting attitude and was very aggressive and when asked him his name he said it was Maguire. On request defendant produced his National Registration card and when witness took out his notebook to take particulars he was struck four heavy blows on the face and head, his cap being knocked off and his notebook knocked out of his hands. Witness got hold of defendant by the coat and an American soldier snatched defendant’s identity card out of witness’s hand. When witness saw the attitude of the American soldiers he could not do very much at the time.  Some civilians wanted him to take Maguire from the American soldiers and seemed to resent the interference of the Americans.

The soldiers took Maguire out and they got into a lorry. Other police arrived and they took Maguire out of the lorry. He lay down in the lorry and held on to the American soldiers, and was taken out of the lorry forcibly. When being brought to the barracks he resisted very violently. Defendant was not drunk but had drink taken. ‘I came off lucky, I must say,” added witness. “I think Maguire meant to hurt me.” To Mr. J. B. Murphy for the defence, witness said that defendant was kept in the barracks all night and when handed the summonses next morning said he apologised, that he had no intention of hitting a policeman. His Worship—Were you in uniform? — I was. Mr. Murphy—Defendant instructs me to express, his most sincere apologies to you here today.

Sergeant Sherrard said that defendant resisted arrest violently and succeeded in tripping him. He said he did not mind if he did 20 years penal servitude. Mr. Murphy said this was a most regrettable occurrence and one which defendant felt very deeply to-day. Explaining the circumstances, he said that defendant was engaged in war service and was attached to the American Army, and along with a number of American soldiers he came into the town on this particular night, had several drinks, and then went to the pictures where they only remained ten minutes. They went out and had more drink and went to the dance. The three of them went into the lavatory where this boy was. They did not assault him, they said, but the boy went out and complained he had been assaulted. Maguire, who was hopelessly drunk at the time, was asked for his identity card and apparently lost his temper owing to the fact that he felt he was being charged with assault. He realised the seriousness of the offence he had committed when he sobered up next morning.

Defendant, in evidence, bore out his solicitor’s statement. Next morning, when told what happened he apologised. Mr. Murphy — On your oath were you drunk or sober?—I was drunk. Head-Constable Poots—Do you not think this was a most unprovoked assault on the sergeant? Defendant—I do. His Worship said he thought it was a drunken spree and defendant had adopted a very wise course. Defendant at the earliest possible moment had apologised, to Sergt. Torrance for assaulting the sergeant he imposed a fine of 40s and costs and. bound over defendant for 12 months, himself in £10 and one surety of £5. His Worship added: ‘I would like to make it quite clear, in these cases I shall not have the slightest hesitation, in sending the people to jail, especially in cases where U.S. forces are involved. It may possibly drag them into a very unpleasant incident.”’

10-10-1942. ROWDY BEHAVIOUR AND VANDALISM. SCENES DESCRIBED AT COUNCIL MEETING. MINOR HALL DANCE BOOKINGS SUSPENDED. Serious complaints regarding misconduct, rowdy behaviour, drunkenness and vandalism in the Town Hall led to Enniskillen Urban Council on Monday, by the casting vote of the Chairman (Senator Whaley), suspending for three months the bookings of the Minor Hall for dances when present bookings expire. There were revelations regarding the consumption of intoxicants by women, who have been seen badly under the influence of drink in the Town Hall and on the streets. It was stated that “it is as much as the caretaker’s life is worth to talk to some of these rough and rowdy characters in the hall. When the Surveyor (Mr, J. reported that painting work had carried out in the Minor Hall, Mr. J. Logan said the Minor Hall that morning was mud from top to bottom. Criminal proceedings should be taken against someone, and there should somebody in the hall to protect it on the occasion of dances.

Chairman—You mean dirt on the floor? Mr. Logan—Oh the walls–it is mud right up to the top. There are all sorts of filth, not on one wall, but on all. The Surveyor r. Donnelly) said the hall was cleaned on Friday. .He had seen the dirt on Sunday. There had been a dance on Saturday night. Mr. Monaghan—When was that damage likely to have been done? Mr. W. Johnston—Saturday night. Mr. Monaghan—Is there any undertaking demanded by the Council, from the organisers of these dances that they will be responsible for their good conduct? Chairman— There is no supervision. Drink was not sold in the Town Hall. People brought in drink in their pockets, and no one could be expected to search, them to see that they had none. The first place they made for was the lavatory, where the drink was taken. How was that going to be stopped?

10-10-1942. EXCHANGE OF PLAQUES. Fermanagh County Council received from the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty a letter stating that as a result of the successful warship week Fermanagh reached its financial objective, thus enabling that area to adopt the destroyer Sir Lancelot. The commanding officer and ship’s company of the ship were being informed, so that a lasting association might be established between the ship and Fermanagh people. Instructions had been given to prepare a commemorative plaque for presentation to the area. If the Council had in mind to present in return a commemorative plaque to the ship, the Admiralty should be informed so that an occasion for the exchange might be arranged. The Secretary (Mr. Moffitt) said he had brought the matter before the Finance committee who had approved of the presentation of the plaque. The matter was left in the hands of the Chairman and Secretary.

10-10-1942. RELIGIOUS RECEPTION IN MONAGHAN. The reception took place at St. Louis Convent, Monaghan, of Miss Anna Foley (Sister M. Carmel Teresa) of Ballin Valley, Coolaney, Co. Sligo. The ceremony was performed by Right Rev. Mgr. Dean Keown, Vicar Capitular, P.P., V.G., Carrickmacross, assisted by Very Rev. J. J. McCaughey, Adm., V.F., and Rev. E. McGahan, C.C., Monaghan. Sister Mary St. Luke, OFM. (Finnegan), daughter of Mr. and Mrs T. Finnegan, Dernaglagh, Magheracloone Co., Monaghan who was professed in the Franciscan Convent, Holme Hall, Yorkshire, won distinction in the nursing profession before joining the community and was educated at St. Louis Convents, Monaghan and Carrickmacross. .

10-10-1942. LATE MR LEO HYNES. The death is reported from Port Arthur, Ontario, Canada, of Mr. George Hynes, second son of the late James and Frances Hynes, of 5, Orchard Terrace, Enniskillen. Deceased belonged to a family which will be well remembered in the district for its widespread popularity and the reputation gained by Mr. James Hynes and his sons in the building trade. As reliable and efficient building contractors, the Hynes firm was well known over a wide area. Many years ago, the deceased, left this country for Canada, where he established for himself a circle of sincere friends who will deeply mourn his passing.

10-10-1942. EXCELLENT RATES COLLECTION. Mr. H. J. Moffitt, secretary, told Fermanagh County Council on Friday that of the total warrant for the year of £18,784 13s 11d, a sum of £9,892 18s 5d , or 53 per cent, of the total, had been lodged by the collectors for the half-year up to 30th Sept., 1942. This was a very satisfactory return. All the collectors had closed the first half of the warrant.

10-10-1942. WELL-KNOWN WATER DIVINER’S DEATH. Early on Tuesday morning, well- known well-sinker and water diviner, ‘‘Bill’ Williamson, was taken suddenly ill at his home at Drummurry, Ballinamallard. An urgent message was sent for a doctor but before his arrival Mr. Williamson was dead. He had been living in the district for about six years prior to which he resided at Conerich, Enniskillen. He was a native of Tipperary and aged about 60. He is survived by his wife and family.

10-10-1942. RETIRED AND DIED IN SAME QUARTERS. COINCIDENCE OF RATE COLLECTORS’ PASSING. At Fermanagh County Council on Friday, Hon. C. L. Corry presiding, Mr. H. J. D. Moffitt, secretary, reported the deaths of Mr. John Patterson and Mr. John, Crozier, two superannuated rate collectors. He pointed out that Mr. Patterson had been appointed in 1906, and Mr. Crozier in 1907. Both retired in the same quarter in 1938, and now both had died in the same quarter of 1942. It was a peculiar coincidence he added.  Mr. George Elliott moved a vote of sympathy with the relatives of the deceased, who, he said, had given the Council very faithful service in their time. Lord Enniskillen seconded, and the proposal was passed in silence, the members standing.

10-10-1942. DEATH OF DR. KIDD. WELL-KNOWN ENNISKILLEN SURGEON. Dr. Leonard Kidd, D.L., one of the best-known medical practitioners in Northern Ireland and for many years medical superintendent of the Fermanagh County Hospital died on Friday of last week at his residence, Green Gates, Enniskillen, in his 80th year. He represented the medical profession of all Ireland on the Council of the British Medical Association in London for some time, and was a keen .advocate of the establishment of a Ministry of Health for Northern Ireland. During his long tenure of office at the Fermanagh Hospital he transformed that institution from a small poorly-equipped building into one of the most modern and best equipped in every respect to be found in the Irish Provinces. In recent years’ a new maternity and children’s wing has been added. Dr. Kidd had been in failing health for a considerable time, and had been confined to bed for many months prior to his death. He is survived by two daughters, Miss Edith Kidd, Co. Librarian, Armagh, and Miss Rita Kidd, secretary to the Fermanagh County Hospital.

10-10-1942. WAR WORK PERMIT REFUSED. In reply to Mr, H. Midgley, Labour) at Stormont on Tuesday, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry, of Home Affairs said that in the case of a Mr. J. Smyth, Mary Street, Enniskillen, a permit necessary to enable him ,to take up war work was refused by the Services Security Officer. The onus of deciding whether or not a person was suitable for employment in a military camp rested entirely with the appropriate military authority, and while he (the Parliamentary Secretary) could accept no .responsibility on this point, he was satisfied that the action taken was the proper one in the interests of public security.

10-10-1942. BORDER SEIZURE. A smugglers’ rendezvous utilized by black marketeers from both “Eire” and Northern Ireland, was discovered on Tuesday near the Border in a cemetery building adjoining Connon’s Church, Clones, Co. Monaghan. The “capture” included cases packed with, hundreds of bottles of brandy, gin and wines, bearing a Dublin mark, and bales of binder twine and chests of tea from Northern Ireland. Binder twine, which is extensively used in harvesting, is unobtainable in “Eire.”

10-10-1942. OLD PERMANENT WAY OF CLOCHER RAILWAY. Replying to Mr. Jacob Tavener, at Fermanagh County Council on Friday, Mr. H. J. D. Moffitt said it was the intention of the Council to remove the foundation of the now defunct Clogher Valley permanent way and utilise this ground for widening the roadway where it ran alongside the line. The cost of this work would be recouped to the Council by the liquidator. Answering Lord Belmore, Mr. Moffitt said the Council were not acquiring those portions of the line site which lay inside private property.

10-10-1942. LEAN TIMES FOR BOOKMAKERS. The decline, due to wartime restrictions,  in the betting business was referred to by Mr. P. J. Flanagan, LL.B., solicitor, when defending a number of bookmakers, summoned at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday. He said that having regard to the small number of bets in these cases, he did not think, from the police point, of view, the business could be said to be a nuisance. He knew it was not right for him to speak of profits arising from an illegal business, but the racing programme at present was very limited. Certain wayside pulpits proclaimed that the “bookmakers always win.” In this particular case he thought it was correct to say that the bookmakers always lose. (laughter) Major Dickie, R.M. — But they remain in business. Head Const. Poots, (prosecuting) We are only attempting to make them disgorge some of their winnings. (Laughter) His Worship—I am afraid this is becoming a sort of annual tax. The principals in the case, John Jones, 24 Church Street; Lawrence McKeown, Belmore. Street and Patrick McCall. Market street, were each fined 40/- and costs, and each of the frequenters 3/- and costs. The complainants were Sergt. Codd and, McNally and Constable Kane.

10-10-1942. RAILINGS FOR WAR EFFORT. Fermanagh County Council on Friday decided to cooperate with the Ministry of Finance in the scheme to obtain railings for the war effort. When .the secretary read a letter from the Ministry on the matter, he said that representatives of the Ministry had had a conference with the County Surveyor and himself, and he (the secretary) consulted the chairman, and in the meantime the assistant surveyors were scheduling all the railings in the county. In reply to a member, the secretary said that, according to an advertisement which had appeared, objection could be lodged by owners against the removal of railings, but there was only a small chance of any objection being upheld. He thought that the only exemptions were in the case of gates on farms, and artistic and valuable railings.

10-10-1942. LATE CONSTABLE BOB SCOTT. The sudden death on Monday in Belfast of Constable Bob Scott caused deep regret in the Enniskillen district in which he had been stationed for nearly 12 years until his transfer to Belfast in the early months of this year. Shortly before his transfer he married Miss Doreen Bleakley, of High Street, and it is stated he was taken suddenly ill and died in his wife’s arms in their Belfast home. He was a popular and efficient police officer who knew the line of demarcation between efficiency and officiousness. A tall, well-built policeman, his death was wholly unexpected.

 

 

Davy Elliott, Pettigo Blacksmith. David Elliott – Village Blacksmith keeps up a rich Tradition. Impartial Reporter 11th September 1980. (Report by Brian Donaldson) (Photo Raymond Humphreys)

After more than half a century as a blacksmith, working a couple of miles on the Donegal side of Pettigo village, David has preserved an ancient craft that is fast disappearing from the rural scene. The emergence of the tractor on the agricultural scene in post-war years, replacing the farm horse, has been blamed for the decline in forges but David maintains there could still be a future in the trade for a dedicated young man willing to learn.

“It is a dying trade to a certain extent but there is a future for any young man who was willing to serve his apprenticeship to become a blacksmith. There would be a livelihood yet, what with the growth in the number of riding horses,” he said, puffing a mild cigar in the confines of his forge.

RED ROSES. Many people would be glad to escape the urban pressures for the simple, carefree life that David and his wife Marion, enjoy at their quaint little cottage adjoining the forge a few miles into Co. Donegal. A profusion of scented red roses growing in black-painted pots adorn the front wall of the whitewashed house which has been preserved from the days of David’s predecessors. The half-door remains a relic of the past and inside of the kitchen- cum-living room with its flagstone floor remains unchanged. The rich odour of burning turf on the hearth fire wafts in the air and tingles the nostrils. The loft, which was once used for sleeping, overhangs from the pitched ceiling. Above the hearth, a gleaming brass overmantel holds various ornaments and antiques and two large circular patterned plates are displayed. It’s like living in another world. A T.V. set serves as the only reminder that it’s a modem era.

FARRIERS’ COMPETITION. In a prominent position on a wall hangs a framed certificate which certifies David’s prowess as a blacksmith. It confirms his membership of The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths. David sat the examination while competition at Balmoral Show in 1969 when he was runner-up. The success of the examination made David a registered shoeing smith. But he has a sentimental feeling for the certificate. He became a registered blacksmith exactly 100 years after his grandfather, James Elliott, began his indenture into the trade. He still keeps the original contract. David explained how his grandfather founded the first forge at Drumawark, outside Pettigo. “He served his time with a blacksmith named Robert Johnston in Pettigo village and left to go across to Scotland to work. But when he was there a while he took bad with a fever and was laid up in hospital in Glasgow. It was there that he met his wife, who was a nurse.

SCOTTISH WIFE. “She had come from Argyllshire in the western highlands and was a fluent Scottish-Gaelic speaker. “My grandfather married her and brought her back here where he set up this forge and they reared six of a family. The forge has been here since.”

He went on: “My father married and settled here and when I left school at 14, I joined my grandfather and father in the business. The three of us worked together for a number of years.

David has maintained the links with his grandmother’s homeland. He returned a couple of weeks ago to watch the Scottish National sheepdog trials at Dumfries and he spent a few extra days visiting some of his many friends he has made there. “1 met an old shepherd who was running a dog in the National,” David told me. “He won an international in Wales one year and at 76 years of age, he’s still going strong.”

FEW “WEE DRAMS” “It was a most enjoyable three days, we met afterwards in the beer tent and every trial was re-run as we drank a few wee drams. “I have great respect for the Scottish on account of my granny and I’ve made some very good friends.” It was not his first time there. He spent some time in Caithness with a veterinary surgeon he knows and

Modem society has done little to change the lifestyle of country blacksmith David Elliott. He continues to practise this skilled craft which he learnt from his forebears in the little whitewashed forge adjoining the cottage where he was born. David, now 67, takes great pride in his work and enjoys country life to the full. Sheepdog trials and shooting are among his most treasured pastimes and he has been at the Royal Highland show watching the farriers at work. David’s interest in sheepdog trials began a good many years ago and it prompted him to found the Pettigo Sheepdog Society about 18 years ago which is still flourishing. Trials are held every lune. “We have as good a trial as anywhere in Northern Ireland,” he proclaimed proudly.

IDEAL. The countryside around Pettigo is ideal for this country pursuit although the flocks of sheep kept locally have declined considerably in recent years. The countryside also breeds good game, ideal for shooting and as a member of Pettigo Gun Club, he helps to maintain the supply of game birds, especially pheasants in the area. The club receives a grant from the Eire Government to help rear the birds which are released. The only birds saved from shooting are the hens. “Shooting is not what it used to be,” he recalled. “Birds tend to scatter around a bigger area now than in the days when cereal crops kept them in a confined area.”

Fishing was another sport he took part in mainly in the nearby Termon river and mountain lakes which yielded sturdy brown trout.

HARD WORK. As David would profess, though, hard work was the order of the day when he took up the smithing trade, and there was not much time for sport. “There was a time when you had to work hard and you didn’t get a lot for it,” David said, as another whiff of cigar smoke drifted out of the forge door. “We used to work to ten or eleven o’clock at night on plough irons but it was busiest during wartime. “We did a lot of shoeing and jobbing work then and we often took on journeymen smiths who were on the road during the last war. Then when we were busy in the springtime working on ploughs, we’d keep them for six or eight weeks and we learnt a lot from them for they were very experienced men-

A LIVING. “There was a lot of shoeing farm horses too, because of the compulsory tillage but that’s all gone now and there’s just the odd riding horse to shoe now. “Usually there were always two working in the forge but when wages went up, you struggled to get a living for yourself and very often you could not charge more than what a farmer was willing to pay you. “In those days, a set of shoes for a donkey cost two shillings, and five shillings and sixpence for a horse but your raw materials, iron, coal and nails were very cheap then. A box of nails were only about sixpence a pound, now they might be up to £2 a pound!”

Another modern aid which threatened the trade was the supply of electricity by the ESB to the area. This gave rise to electric welders which took over much of the repair work on farm implements. During the war years, David had to set up a forge on the northern side of Pettigo village for his Northern Ireland customers because of the restrictions on materials. Now, the dark interior of the small forge serves as a reminder of the heyday of blacksmithing in the area. It’s a craft that has dwindled because, there is no-one to carry it on and because of the decline in the blacksmith’s work. In an area stretching westwards from Fermanagh across through Donegal, there are now only three blacksmiths still working, one of them Willie Foster of Lisbellaw. The third operates south of Donegal Town.

AWARDS. Anyone willing to take it up would have to operate a portable forge to serve a wider area, David believes. David takes life easier now. “When you come to between 60 and 70 years of age you’re not as good a man as you were and I don’t need to work as hard to earn a living any more,” he said, stoking up the fire. David spends some of his spare time making shepherd’s crooks from hazel-wood found in nearby woods. The artistry of his work won him an award at Ballyshannon craft show. As I left the blacksmith in his forge on the side of the road that used to be the main route from Pettigo to Castlederg but now down-graded to just another narrow country road, 1 could only admire him for preserving this rural scene for posterity.

September 1942. Fermanagh Herald.

19-9-1942. 72 PACKS OF FLOUR. CUSTOMS CAPTURE AT NEWTOWNBUTLER. An Unusual Case. R.M, HOLDS GOODS LIABLE TO FORFEITURE. A most unusual Customs ease was heard at Newtownbutler Petty Sessions on Tuesday, before Major T. W. Dickie, R..M., when William P, Lucas, 15 Fade St., Dublin, and Matthew D. Rooney, 44 Temple Bar, Dublin, were charged in connection with 4 tons 4 cwts. 3 qrs. and 14 lbs. of flour, being goods of which, the export was prohibited, and which were found in the possession of the G.N.R, at Newtownbutler on April 14th, 1942 and in respect of which an order for forfeiture was sought. Mr. James Cooper, Crown Solicitor, prosecuted; Mr. J. Hanna, solicitor, appeared for the two defendants; Mr. M. E. Knight, solicitor, held a watching brief on behalf, of the G.N.R

Mr. Cooper said it was rather all unusual type of case. On April 3rd there arrived at Newtownbutler station 4 tons 4 cwts. 3 qrs. 14 lbs of white flour. This flour had been consigned by the Co. Derry Railway from ‘‘Eire” and was consigned to Dublin. The bags of flour were examined by Mr. Chapman, Officer of Customs. One bag was marked Belfast, another Australia, while the others were differently marked and appeared to have been taken out of the original, bags. The flour was put in a sealed waggon. Proceeding, Mr. Cooper said the Customs authorities, required the station master at Newtownbutler to furnish proof under Sec, 3 of the Customs Defence Act, 1939, as amended by the new regulation. Following the demand of proof from the stationmaster, word was received from the railway companies that this flour had been originally handed in at Stranorlar and that it was consigned from Stranorlar by a man named McFadden. The railway company also stated that Mr. McFadden had never sent any other flour by that route and appeared to be a small country shopkeeper who lived at Breena, about 20 miles from Letterkenny. The freight in sending it from Strabane to Stranorlar would be £1 16s per ton and to send it by Ballyshannon would he £2 Is per ton.

It was re-consigned from Ballyshannon by a man named J. McDonald. Nobody knew who McDonald was. The Customs authorities directed the flour to be seized. It was seized, and notice of the seizure was served on Rooney Bros., Dublin. Mr. Fitzpatrick, solicitor, gave formal .notice that Mr. Lucas claimed ownership, and also wrote on behalf of Rooney, who claimed two tons of the flour. The railway company then informed them part of this flour was first sent from Buncrana to Letterkenny by a man called W. Porter. A man named Bradley then came in and made a claim against the railway company for £228 for loss in respect of the flour. This flour was unobtainable at the time in the Free State and they suggested it was smuggled through the Customs somewhere about Strabane, because it would have to be unloaded and put on the train to have it sent down to Ballyshannon. In any case, it had no business to be exported from Northern Ireland at all.

19-9-1942. IRVINESTOWN PETTY SESSIONS. CYCLE LARCENY CHARGE. BICYCLE THEFT PRISON FOR SOLDIER. At Irvinestown Petty Sessions on Friday, before Major Dickie, R.M., District-Inspector Walshe charged Private Kerrigan, Pioneer Corps, formerly of Boho, Co. Fermanagh with the larceny of a bicycle value £10, the property of Curry Beatty, Ballinamallard. Henry Armstrong, Coolisk, was charged with receiving the bicycle. Kerrigan stated that he was returning to England from leave, when he bought the bicycle from a man named O’Donnell, of Sligo, for £1 15s. He then sold the bicycle to Armstrong for £2 10s. A sentence of six months’ imprisonment was ordered. For Armstrong it was said that he was under the influence of drink when he bought the bicycle and the case was dismissed on the merits.

19-9-1942. £120 IN FINES CALEDON MAN MULCTED. At Dungannon Petty Sessions, Thomas A. Clark, Ballagh, Caledon, was prosecuted for dealing in the following prohibited goods—85 loaves of wheat flour bread, five -0-st. bags wheat flour 420 lb. candles, 446 packets and 14 lb. of soap flakes and soap powders, 3¾ cwt. soap, 24 lb. custard powder, one quarter and 2½ lb. cocoa, and 1 qr. 22 lb. coffee. On a second count he was prosecuted for having the following uncustomed goods—large iron kettle, one aluminium teapot, one enamel teapot, two enamel dishes, one enamel saucepan, and 38 dozen eggs. Mr. Long, R.M., said the Clarke family seemed to be engaged in the wholesale distribution of these prohibited articles Owing to defendant’s age and ill-health he would not send him to prison. In the first case he would be fined £115 12s 3d. For harbouring the uncustomed goods he was fined £5.

19-9-1942. REFUSED TO GIVE NAMES TO B SPECIALS. Five Men Before Trillick Court. At Trillick Petty Sessions on Monday, before Major Dickie, R.M., Francis Donnelly, Derrymacanna; Francis Woods, Moorfield, Trillick; John P. McGrade, Shanmullagh; Philip McGrade, Tallymacanna; and Frank McColgan, Stralongford were charged with disorderly conduct and refusing to give their names to members of a “B” patrol. S. D. Commandant Beattie, gave evidence that early on Monday morning, Aug.,

19-9-1942. £30 FINE ON IRVINESTOWN MOTORIST FAILURE TO TAX CAR. Daniel McCrossan, Main Street, Irvinestown, appeared at the local Petty Sessions last Friday, before Major Dickie, R.M., to answer a summons brought against him for using a motor vehicle on the public road on 7th April last without a licence. The summons was brought by Fermanagh County Council per Herbert J. D. Moffitt, taxation officer.

Mr. J. Cooper, Crown Solicitor, prosecuting, said that Constable Cander found defendant’s car on the public street on 7th April, 1942 without being licensed. The matter came before the County Council, and they decided to allow defendant off with a mitigated penalty of £1. Mr. Moffitt wrote to defendant on the 6th May informing him that proceedings would be stayed if he paid £1. No answer was received, and Mr. Moffitt again wrote, but no answer was received from defendant. Constable Cander gave evidence of finding a public service vehicle, the property of defendant, on the street on 7th April. It was not licensed. Defendant said “It was just an overlook at the time.” John Moffitt, who is employed in the taxation office, said the car was licensed at the present time. The annual duty was £10 a year. He sent a notice to defendant that the County Council had considered the matter, and that if he paid £1 proceedings would not be taken—if he took out a licence. There was no reply. Witness sent a further note on 7th July. Mr. Cooper—In this case the penalty is £20, or three times the amount of duty payable, whichever is the greater. The County Council I understand, have power to review it when it goes back to them. The greater penalty is £30. Defendant said that the car was out of order at the time, and he was looking for parts for it. His Worship — Why did you not answer the letter? I did not think the offence was very serious. Defendant added that if he did not tax the car he would get no petrol. His Worship imposed a penalty of £30, and £1 ls 9d costs, with a stay till next Court. Mr. Cooper — We want to get the penalty your Worship, to show these people they must pay attention to these things.

19-9-1942. TO STAND FOR STORMONT SEAT MR. EAMONN DONNELLY, Ex-T.D. Mr. Eamonn Donnelly, secretary of the Green Cross Fund, and formerly T.D. for Leix-Offaly, is to be a candidate for the Northern Ireland Parliamentary by-election for the. Falls Division, Belfast. He was also M.P. for South, Armagh from 1925 to 1929. Mr. Donnelly told a Press man that he had been asked by a number of representative men to stand for the Division in the interests of unity. His chief aims would be to try to bring together all sections of the minority. “I know,” he said, “there are many who will support the candidature of one espousing the principles that I would like to see established. We have been wandering more or less in a morass for the last, number of years, at sixes and sevens, with no definite guidance as to the ultimate realisation of the objective, that everyone cherishes dearly, namely, the unification of our country.

“I have always held, and still hold, that it is possible to re-unite our country by constitutional means. I believe the Irish people as a whole, given an opportunity, will stand for the bringing together again of the old Constituent Assembly, the first Dail under the aegis of which the advances were made which Southern Ireland today enjoys, but which do not apply to us.” “I assured the delegation,” he said, “ that my aim, if elected, would be to concentrate on the release of political internees. “There can be no peace while internment without trial exists. It is contrary to every principle of justice and citizenship, and certainly contrary to what the Allied. Powers profess to be fighting for. I have never compromised and never will on the unity of Ireland. I believe the unity of the country is more necessary to-day than ever, more particularly as its defence as a unit in the present world conflict should be the first consideration of every Irishman. I have no doubt as to the result in West Belfast. It often gave a lead before to Ireland, and God knows we want leadership now more than ever.”

19-9-1942. CHARM ING DERRY WEDDING. OMAGH POSTAL OFFICIAL WED. HYNES —YANNARELLI. A charming wedding took place on Thursday morning in St. Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry, with Nuptial Mass and Papal Blessing, when two well-known Derry and Tyrone families were united. The contracting parties were Mr. Patrick Hynes, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hynes, of Campsie, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, and Miss Isabella Yannarelli, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. Yannarelli, Strand Road, Derry City. Both bride and bridegroom, are well known and highly esteemed, the bridegroom being a very popular member of the clerical staff of Omagh Post Office, while the bride is prominent in local social circles. The ceremony was performed by Rev. T. Devine, C.C.. Castlefin, Donegal.

19-9-1942. ASSAULT CASE. DEFENDANT FINED AND REMOVED FROM COURT. IRVINESTOWN STORY. Summonses against father and son were heard at Irvinestown Petty Sessions on Friday, before Major Dickie, R.M., when Thomas McLaughlin, Coolback, brought a summons against James Hamilton Martin (father), Cabragh, for defendant’s neglect to pay for trespass of his cattle on complainant’s land at Doogary on 3rd inst.; and also a summons against Ernest Martin (son), Cabragh, for assault. Mr. A. Herbert appeared for complainant, who gave evidence that he had taken part of a farm, the other, part being taken by the senior defendant; Plaintiff alleged that on the 3rd inst. Martin senior put, seven head of cattle on to the land he (plaintiff) had taken. Later, when plaintiff met defendant and his four sons defendant asked him did he drive the cattle off, and plaintiff replied in the affirmative. Plaintiff then described what followed, and said that Ernest Martin struck him on the mouth, which bled.

Francis McMulkin, owner of the farm gave evidence as to the letting. When he had finished his evidence there ensued an argument between the senior defendant and witness.       Sergeant M, Kelly said that when plaintiff called with him on 3rd inst. there was blood trickling from the side of his mouth, and his lip was slightly swollen. Defendant said that plaintiff made all shapes to stick, him with a pitchfork. One of his sons caught, the pitchfork, and whatever injury plaintiff got was in the wrangling over the pitchfork.

This man, declared defendant, “is a bad man—a dangerous man. Would you not know the look of him? Ernest Martin denied striking plaintiff. Plaintiff and his brother were wrestling for the pitch fork on one side of the road, and witness was standing on the other side of the road. Kenneth Martin said plaintiff followed them with a pitch fork and attempted to stab his father with it. Witness caught the pitch fork, and during the tussle plaintiff got a crack on the face.His Worship—How many of you were there? — We were going to our work, and there were five of us. Henry Emery also gave evidence.

His Warship held that Martin, Sen., was guilty of trespass, and that his son was guilty of an unprovoked assault. He fined the son 40/- and 4/- costs, and made an order for the trespass by scale, with £2 2s 0d costs. Addressing Martin, Senr., his Worship said that from his behaviour in Court, if he had any more trouble with him he would bind him over in heavy sureties to keep the peace. Defendant—I will appeal the case. His Worship then directed the police to remove defendant from Court.

19-9-1942. ROSSINVER PARISH COUNCIL. FARMERS’ GRIEVANCE. THE TEA SUPPLY. A meeting of Rossinver Parish. Council was held in St. Aiden’s Hall on Sunday, Rev. Father McPhillips, P. P. (chairman) presiding. Other members present included: Messrs. Michael Sheerin, V.C., John Gilligan, P.C.; Joseph Fox, James Connolly, Sean Eames, N.T. (secretary), and Padraic J. O’Rourke.

DRAINAGE. A deputation appeared before the meeting on behalf of farmers residing in the townlands of Corraleskin, Gortnaderry, Gubmanus, Lattoon and Cornagowna, whose lands have been flooded by the Kilcoo River. Mr. Patrick Meehan, Latloon, who acted as spokesman said that many farmers along the border from Kiltyclogher to Garrison had suffered great losses in hay crops and pasture for the past two months. The damage done had been unprecedented. Nine floods, coming in quick succession had effected the complete ruin of a huge amount of hay and oats. The floods had been the worst in living memory. A lake in the Six Counties had been drained a few years ago, and the extra water from this area was now coming into the border river, making the flooding much worse than it used to be. Rev. P. McPhillips- The people have been trying for the past 50 years to get the border river drained, and the removal of a narrow bed of rock from the river bed near Garrison would solve the whole difficulty at a very small cost. A. few sticks of gelignite would; do the whole thing.

Mr. O’Rourke—Farmers on both sides of the border are affected, and our Government were prepared to have the river drained four years ago provided the Six-County Government would co-operate. The required co-operation was not forthcoming, and so the scheme fell through.

Mr. Denis Keaney (a member of the deputation) stated that as all the good grazing lands, lay along the river the cattle had failed in milking since they were put on the hard hills, and farmers had lost from £5 to £10 in their creamery Cheques for the two months, and the flooded hay was likely to kill the cattle during the winter.

The following resolution, proposed by Mr. P. J. O’Rourke, seconded by Mr. M. Sheerin, was passed unanimously (copies to be forwarded to the Minister for Local Government and local T.D.s): “That we, the members of Rossinver Parish Council, request the Minister for Local Government to take into, consideration the serious losses in hay crops and pasture suffered by farmers living along the border river, particularly in the townlands of Corraleskin, Gortnaderry, Lattoon, Gubmanus and Cornagowna, and to grant them a rebate in the rates, for the coming year. Wo also consider it very necessary that immediate action be taken by the Government to have the rock at Cornagowna, which is the prime cause of the whole flooding, removed.” Mr. Sheerin—We want the T.D.s to back us up in this matter.

19-9-1942. BELLEEK SESSIONS. At Belleek Petty Sessions on Tuesday, Before Major Dickie, R.M., Eric Carson, Knocknashangan, Garrison, was fined 10s for failing to produce his identity card when asked to do so by an authorised person. Michael O’Shea, Drumanillar, Belleek, was summoned for leading two horses on the public highway during the hours of darkness without having a light in front of the animals. The case was dismissed.

19-9-1942. WAR DEPARTMENT PETROL. Thomas Gallagher, Aghoo, Garrison, was charged with having in his possession on 23rd July a quantity of petrol—5 gallons— the property of the War Department. (N.I.), which, he bought or received from a soldier or person, acting on his behalf. He was also charged with not being a servant of the Government acting in the course of his duty as such, or a person acting in accordance with the authority of a Government Department had in his possession a quantity of Government petroleum spirit contrary to the Emergency Powers Order. Constable McMullin, examined by D.I. Walshe who prosecuted, said that on 23rd July he stopped Gallagher, and subsequently went to inspect defendant’s garage, and found the petrol in a tins there. In a statement Gallagher said he got two gallons of petrol from a soldier on the road a few weeks previously. Sergt. Bailey gave evidence of testing the petrol, which he found reacted to the test for Army petrol and Cpl. Geelan said he dispatched a sample of the petrol to the public analyst at Belfast. D.I. Walshe said that owing to the enormous expense entailed they had not brought the analyst from Belfast, but had obtained his certificate. Mr. P. J. Flanagan, solr., Enniskillen, pleading guilty on behalf of his client, said that this was the type of offence any person, being human, would fall into. The defendant had acted with extrema foolishness, and he asked the Resident Magistrate to deal leniently with the matter. The R.M. said he could not treat the matter lightly, and imposed a fine of £93 on the second summons, the penalty to rule both charges. He allowed two months to pay.

CASE DISMISSED, George Connor, Aghoo, Garrison, was also charged with having army petrol in his possession. D.I. Walshe prosecuted, and Mr, P. J. Flanagan defended.

19-9-1942. SIX COUNTY POTATO PRICES. MORE MONEY FOR GROWERS. (Ed. “Ware Potatoes” is a term mostly used within the potato industry. Sometimes, it is used in a generic sense for any potatoes destined for human consumption in potato form, as opposed to seed potatoes or potatoes that are primarily valued for the amount of starch that can be extracted from them for industrial processing.)

Growers’ prices for ware and seed potatoes of the 1942 crop as from 1st October have now been announced. The districts will be District 1—Counties Antrim., Down, Armagh (Newry No. 2 Rural District only), Tyrone (Strabane Rural District only) and Londonderry, and District 3—-Counties Fermanagh, Tyrone (except Strabane Rural District), Londonderry and Armagh (except Newry No. 2 Rural District).

In District I. the price of ware potatoes during October will be 90/- per ton tor the varieties Golden Wonder, King Edward, Red King and Gladstone; 75/- per ton for Kerr’s Pink, Redskin, Up-to-Date, Dunbar Standard, Arran Peak, Arran Victory and any other variety grown on red soil, and 70/- per ton for any other variety not grown on red soil. In District II. the price will be 5/- per ton less in each case. These are fixed prices for delivery f.o.r. grower’s railway station, or on buyer’s lorry at the farm.

Growers’ prices per ton for Class I. certified seed will be until further notice: Arran Crest, Catriona, Di Vernon, Doon Early, Immune Ash leaf, May Queen, Ninetyfold, Witchhill,  Ulster Chieftain, 205/-; Arran Pilot, Ballydoon, Duke of York. Ulster Monarch, Arran Scout, Sharpe’s Express, 155/-; Doon Pearl, Dunbar, Robar, Eclipse, Dargill Early, Suttin’s Abundance, Arran Signet, 140/ -; Ally, Alness, Arran Comrade, Arran Peak, Ben Lomond, British Queen, Dunbar Standard. Edzell Blue, Gladstone, Golden Wonder, King Edward VII, Red King, Beauty of Hebron, Herald, Bintze, (Muizen) – 120/-: Arran Banner, Arran Cairn, Arran Chief, Arran Consul, Arran Victory, Bishop, Champion, Doon Star, Dunbar Archer, Dunbar Cavalier, Field Marshall, Great Scot, Irish Queen, Kerr’s Pink, King George V., Majestic, President, Redskin, Rhoderick Dhu, Royal Kidney {Queen Mary), Tinwald Perfection. Up-to-Date, Baron, Arran Luxury, 110/-.

The price for Northern Ireland Report Certificate Seed will be 20/- per ton less in each case. A top riddle of and a bottom riddle of 1¼ will apply to all varieties of seed of the above classifications.

CONSUMER TO PAY LESS. A reduction in the maximum wholesale and retail prices for ware potatoes has been announced. To offset this reduction a subsidy will be paid to licensed “first buyers’ and in certain circumstances licensed grower-salesmen. The maximum wholesale price in District I. from 24th to 50th September will be 4/- per cwt. for Grade A and 3/6 per cwt. for Grade B. In District II the price will be 3d per cwt. less in each case. From 28th September to 3rd October the maximum retail price in both districts, will be 5d per half-stone for Grade A and 4½d per half-stone for Grade B.

19-9-1942. Department and Monaghan Appointment. At a meeting of the Co., Monaghan Vocational Education Committee, a letter was read from the Department intimating that the Ministry was not prepared to approve of the appointment of Miss M. Duffy, as commercial teacher in Monaghan Technical School. By 14 votes to 4, a resolution was carried requesting the Minister to sanction the appointment temporarily pending Miss Duffy securing certificate for instruction in typewriting.

19-9-1942. NOTICE TO FARMERS.  We wish to inform our customers and the general public that we have received a large consignment of Men’s, Women’s and Boys’ Kip Nailed Boots for the winter season. These are exceptionally good, reliable Boots, and up to pre-war standard. We would advise the early purchase of same, as we may not be able to repeat the superior quality of these lines. FLANAGAN’S, Enniskillen.

19-9-1942. DESERTED FROM TWO ARMIES. A stranger stopped by a policeman in Enniskillen was found to be a deserter from the Irish Army. It later transpired that the man had deserted from the British Army. The man, Michael D’Arcy, of the A.M.P.C., was charged with being a deserter at a special court before Mr. W. F. Dewane, J.P., and was ordered to be handed over to the military authorities.

19-9-1942. LISNASKEA ASSAULT CASE. When Mary Jane Melanophy, of Lisnaskea, summoned Margaret Burns, Erne Terrace. Lisnaskea, for assault, at Lisnaskea Petty Sessions on Thursday, plaintiff alleged that defendant threw two stones at her, one of them striking her on the ankle. Defendant, said she threw a stone at plaintiff, but she did not believe it hit her. She threw the stone in self-defence when plaintiff raised a broom over her head. Major Dickie, R.M., said he did not believe there was anything to choose between them from what he heard in Court. He imposed on Mrs. Burns a nominal penalty of 2/6, with £1 Is 0d costs, and advised the parties to try to live in peace.

26-9-1942. CONSTABLE SUMMONED AT LETTERBREEN. RECKLESS DRIVING CHARGE DISMISSED. Constable James Mulqueeny, formerly of Kinawley, Co. Fermanagh, and now of Bessbrook, Co. Armagh, appeared at Letterbreen Petty Sessions on 16th inst., before Major Dickie. R.M., on the usual three counts; the reckless driving of a motor car on 2nd May last at the cross roads at Florencecourt Creamery. Mr. P J. Flanagan, LL.B., defended. Two constables who had been with defendant in the car on the occasion gave evidence that on the way out from Enniskillen defendant mentioned about the steering of the car being stiff. About 50 yards from the creamery cross they passed another car. Defendant was driving on the left-hand side of the road at a speed of from 25-30 miles per hour, and in the words of one of the witnesses “all of a sudden the car just gave a ‘double’ on the road and struck the far ditch.” Keith Farlow, aged 13 who witnessed the accident, said he saw the car come round the cross and skid on the gravel. The car had been travelling at a medium speed.

Sergeants Ryan and Henderson also gave evidence, the latter, who is inspector of public service vehicles, describing the condition of the car following the accident, and said the right front wheel was buckled and the tyre burst. Defendant said that at the time of the accident was stationed at Kinawley, and was the driver of the Customs car.. The car in which he had the accident was his own, and his brother had been using it in the city. When it came back he noticed there was something wrong with the steering. Describing the accident, defendant said the steering seemed to lock. He put pressure on it, but could not get it straightened again. The steering did not answer at all, and he struck the bank. His Worship-—There are so many, theories one could advance of how this accident happened. I don’t know which to accept. I don’t think it is a case in which I ought to convict. He dismissed the case.

19-9-1942. WRONGFUL USE OF PETROL. LISNASKEA CASE. The first case of its kind in the district was heard at Lisnaskea Petty Sessions on Thursday, before Major Dickie, R.M., when Imelda Evelyn Beggan, of Tattycam, Newtownbutler, was charged, with having used motor fuel on 3rd August at Kilygullion for a purpose other than that specified. Constable Kelly gave evidence of stopping a Ford motor car driven by defendant on 3rd August, and in reply to questions she said she was getting three gallons of petrol per month for going to Mass on Sundays, and bringing eggs to Lisnaskea market every Saturday and that she had been leaving her sister to the 5.30 p.m. train for Belfast. Mr. J. B. Murphy, defending, said that defendant lived six miles from a railway station and in one of the forms she stated that there was no public transport. He suggested that defendant was entitled to use the car to bring her sister, who worked, in a Government office, to the railway station in order to get back to work. His Worship—She is given this for certain purposes in strict law. He added that one thing that was wrong was the statement that there was no public transport.

Mr. Murphy—It is three miles away. He said that it was the first case of its kind, and he would ask his Worship to apply the Probation of Offenders Act. When applying for a renewal of the three gallons defendant could mention this journey. District Inspector Smyth said it was the first case in the district. They were going to delve into this business very carefully, and the prosecution had been brought to air activity in the matter. His Worship—I understand that if a person is convicted for improper use of petrol automatically the petroleum officer: will not give them any further supplies. District Inspector—They refer it to the police first and ask their opinion. Dealing with defendant under the Probation of Offenders Act on payment of costs of Court, his Worship said that did not mean that the next person would get the benefit of the Probation Act.

26-9-1942. FALSE REPRESENTATIONS CHARGE AT KESH. Thomas Duncan, Water Lane, Letterkeen, was charged at Kesh Petty Sessions an Tuesday with having on the 1st Jan., 1942, at Kesh, for the purpose of obtaining for himself a supplementary pension under the Unemployment Assistance Act, knowingly made a false representation that during the seven days up to and including, 1st January he had not earned more than 5s, whereas, during this period he was employed by Messrs. H. and J. Martin, Ltd., 163, Ormeau Road, Belfast, and in the week ended 31st December, 1941, earned 76/3d,: this sum being paid to him on 3rd Jan., 1942. There was a second charge against defendant of making a false representation, for the same purpose, for the week ending 8th January, the amount he was alleged to have earned  being 67/9d. Alan McCullagh, an official of the Assistance Board, gave evidence of receiving defendant’s application on 16th October last. Major Dickie, R.M. “(to defendant) — Have you any explanation to give? Defendant—I have not indeed. I know nothing about it. His Worship-—You knew enough to draw £3 16s.

James Weir, another official, gave evidence of filling up the application for defendant on 14th Oct. He read over the application to defendant and explained it to him and witnessed defendant’s mark. Another official, William Henry, Howe, told of interviewing defendant on 4th. Feb., and following caution, defendant said he had done “only an odd hour’s work inside, the last three years.” He denied having been fully employed. John L. Duffy, of the firm of Messrs. Martin, said that for the four weeks from 16th Dec.—10th January, defendant was paid 15s 6d, 75s, 76/3, and 67/9. Miss Mildred Thompson, postmistress, Kesh, said when defendant brought these paying, orders to her, she read them over to defendant and explained them to him. Sergt. Horgan said defendant was a labouring man of good character. Mr. J. Cooper, Crown solicitor, prosecuting—These cases are giving a lot of trouble. These men are drawing large sums of money and are getting this money at the same time. His Worship—I am afraid it is not a case in which there could be any possibility of a mistake. He would not send defendant to jail but imposed on the first charge a fine of £5 and 40s costs, and on the second charge 40s and 20s costs. In default, in the first case two months’ imprisonment and in the second case one month, to run consecutively. Addressing defendant, his Worship said —“That is a fairly substantial penalty, but I am afraid you deserve it.”

19-9-1942. ANTRIM MAN KILLED. TWO U.S. SOLDIERS IN CUSTODY. Soldierstown, Aghalee, South Antrim, has been the scene of a horrible crime which has resulted in the death of Edward Clenaghan, aged 46, who was found lying unconscious on the roadside about midnight on Monday and who died on Tuesday in Lurgan District Hospital. Two American soldiers; 20-year-old Embra H. Farley, from Arkansas, and 26-year-old Herbert Jacobs, from Kentucky, are being held by the U.S. military police in connection with the affair. At an inquest a verdict was returned that Clenaghan died from injuries caused by some person or persons. The dead man was an A.R.P. warden and was unmarried. He lived with his mother at Soldierstown and helped her to manage a public-house, he was a kinsman of the famous artist, Sir John Lavery under whom, he studied art for a time, and was a cousin of the late, Rt. Rev. Mgr. Canon Clenaghan, P.P., V.G., St. Malachy’s Church, Belfast, and of Rev, George Clenaghan, P. P., Armoy.

At the inquest, Dr. James O’Connell, R.M.O., Lurgan Hospital, said that deceased was admitted at 1.50 on Tuesday morning. He was unconscious on admission, and remained so until his death, about 7 o’clock that morning. He had a lacerated wound over the left eye, a lacerated wound on the left side of the chin, and bruising on the right side of the head. The cause of death was cerebral laceration following a fracture of the skull. James Joseph Clenaghan, farmer, a brother of the dead man, said that on Monday evening he was in the bar of his mother’s licensed premises. There were a number of U.S. soldiers there, and he particularly noticed two of them, who seemed to be in or about all afternoon.

All the soldiers left except the two. The soldier in command seemed to be more or less scared of these two but he eventually got them out. All the others left and witness got the bar closed.  About 9.20 p.m., he heard the sound of breaking glass and went out to the hall door and found that a pane of glass in the bar window was broken. He heard footsteps running and overtook two American soldiers. He tried to reason with them, but they started using filthy language and waving two beer bottles and insisted on having more drink. Witness refused, advising them to go on up the road and they might get another drink elsewhere. They still kept walking about on the road some twenty yards or so from the house. He went back home, and his brother, Edward, said he would go up and see the commanding officer of the camp.: He left on his bicycle about 9.30 or 9.45 p.m. About 12.15 a.m. in consequence of a message, he went along the road towards Aghalee, and about a quarter of a mile from home found his brother lying on the grass on the left-hand side of the road going towards Aghalee. He seemed to be in terrible pain and was unconscious. Witness obtained a motorcar and accompanied him to Lurgan Hospital.

26-9-1942. FEEDING STUFFS RATIONING Laggards Should Lodge Ration Books At Once. Livestock owners and farmers have now had their ration books for the fifth period under the feeding stuffs rationing scheme in their possession for three weeks, but, strange to say, many have not yet lodged the books with their chosen suppliers. The Ministry of Agriculture has issued to those who have not done so a timely warning that feeding stuffs cannot be allocated to them until their, suppliers have received their buying permits, and, of course, no supplier can obtain a buying permit until he has forwarded his customers’ nomination forms to the Ministry. If, therefore, you do not receive feeding stuffs because of your failure to lodge your ration book, do not blame your supplier, or the Ministry. Blame yourself because you will be the only person worthy of blame.

26-9-1942. UNSCUTCHED FLAX. MINISTER AND THE 1941 CROP. The proportion of the 1941 flax crop as yet unscutched is 472 acres, and everything possible is being done to assist in having these crops processed. This was stated by Lord Glentoran (Minister of Agriculture) in reply to Mr. Brown (South Down) at Stormont on Tuesday. Lord Glentoran said a survey of scutch mills had shown that in two areas facilities for handling the crop were inadequate. He was satisfied there would be adequate facilities for 1942 crop, and steps were being taken to ensure that any increase in the 1943 crop would dealt with.

26-9-1942. BREAD PRICES INCREASED ON BOTH SIDES OF BORDER. Britain’s bread is to be dearer, but potatoes cheaper, under a new order, which also affects the Six Counties. From Sunday, the 4lb. loaf went up from 8d to 9d, with the 21b. loaf up by a halfpenny. Potato prices will from September 28 be reduced to an average of 1d a lb. The price charges are part of the campaign to reduce bread and increase potato consumption in Britain. The British Food Ministry has kept the price of bread almost stable since the outbreak of war by subsidies costing some £80 000 a year. Increased bread prices came into effect in the Twenty-Six Counties on and from Monday last.

26-9-1942. TEACHERS’ DEMAND FOR WAR BONUS. QUESTION AT STORMONT. At Stormont on Tuesday, the Minister of Finance told Mr. J. Beattie (Lab., Pottinger) that a demand for a war bonus of £1 a week for all teachers had been received by the Ministry of Education. He was informed that in Britain the Burnham Committee has recommended that war bonuses for teachers should be increased as from the 1st July, 1942, the new rates being £45 per annum for men and £36 per annum, for women on the lower scales of salary, and £35 and £28 for men and women respectively on higher scales. Certain matters were at present under investigation by the Ministry of Education with a view to the application of these rates of bonus to teachers’ salaries in Northern Ireland, and, of course, as the member was aware the policy of their Government had been to give to Northern Ireland teachers the same war bonuses— and no more—as had been granted to their colleagues in Britain.

26-9-1942. MISUSE OF PETROL LISNASKEA MAN’S OFFENCE. Charles Magee, hackney car owner, of Lisnaskea, was, at Caledon Petty Sessions on Monday, fined 10/- for using petrol in his car for purposes other than intended. It was stated by the police that defendant was intercepted on a recent Sunday driving his wife and family to Newry to see friends. Mr. J. J. Rea, solicitor (for defendant) admitted defendant used the car to drive his family to Newry to see his mother-in-law, who was ill, and his client did not know it was an offence to use the car in this way.

26-9-1942. TRACTOR WITHOUT LICENCE KE$H COURT FlNE. When William J. Hamilton, Kilmore, was prosecuted at Kesh Petty Sessions on Tuesday for permitting a young boy to drive a tractor without a policy of insurance, Sergeant Bradley stated that the boy gave his age as 13 years and had no licence to drive. Hamilton said that the young lad had been pressing him to learn to drive and he yielded to the boy’s request. Hamilton was fined £3 and costs and a case against the boy was withdrawn. No order was made as to suspension.

26-9-1942. UNPRODUCED IDENTITY CARD. When Dorothy Grimsley, Feddans, Kesh, was charged with failing to produce her identity card to a police constable in uniform, it was stated that defendant elected to produce the card at Kesh but had not done so within the prescribed period. Defendant said she was sorry about the whole thing. Major Dickie, R.M. – You have given everybody a lot of trouble. I am afraid you will have to pay for it. Fined 5s.

26-9-1942. GAELIC SPEAKING PRIESTS. As a result of a motion by Riobard A. Bramharm (An Ard Craobh), adopted by the Dublin Executive of the Gaelic League, the Annual Congress is to be called on to request his Eminence Cardinal MacRory to ensure that at least one Gaelic-speaking priest be appointed to each church in Ireland, to attend to the spiritual needs of Gaels..

26-9-1942. FISHERY CASE AT KESH. Hamilton Shaw, jun., Ardshankill, Boa Island, was charged before Major Dickie, R; M., at Kesh Petty Sessions, on Tuesday, with having had an otter in his possession at Mullans, Boa Island, on 1st June last. Mr. J. Hanna appeared, for Enniskillen Fishery Board, and Mr. Murnaghan defended. William Irvine, water bailiff, gave evidence that when on the shore of Mullans Bay he observed two men fishing on the side of Lusty Beg. Later the boat headed for the Boa Island shore where the men got out. Witness took cover and saw a man—whom he failed to identify—walking from the boat. The other man (defendant) walked out of the boat with something under his arm and hid it in a whin bush. Defendant walked back to the boat, picked up some sticks, and headed off. Witness approached him then and asked him where he had got the fish and he did not give any definite answer. Witness searched the whin bush and found an otter and a line of flies in a wet condition. He followed defendant and took the fish from him. Defendant denied having had the otter. His Worship said he was afraid there was not much doubt about it and imposed a fine of 20s and £2 10s costs, with an order for the forfeiture of the otter and line.

26-9-1942. DISTRESSING FIVEMILETOWN AFFAIR CHILD LOSES LEGS. A distressing accident occurred during harvesting operations on Wednesday evening of last week, when a child aged two years, daughter of Bernard McMahon, Breakley, Fivemiletown, had both legs severed.  It appears the child crept into the corn and became entangled in the reaper. The child was immediately removed to Fermanagh County Hospital, where its condition is still regarded as rather critical.

26-9-1942. INFANTILE PARALYSIS OUTBREAK. Nine deaths from infantile paralysis have been reported since July 1, the Dublin Department of Local Government announced on Tuesday. Apart from the five cases in Dublin city during the week ended September 19, there were 26 cases in the rest of the country for that week. Every possible precaution against the spread of the disease is being taken, the Department adds.

26-9-1942. TWO £10 FINES AT KESH. James Brimstone, Pruckliss, was fined £10 at Kesh Petty Sessions on Tuesday, for knowingly harbouring one head of cattle. A similar charge against John Brimstone, Bannagh, Kesh, was dismissed. Wm. John Mulholland, Derrylougher was fined £l0 for importing or bringing one head of cattle into the United Kingdom.

26-9-1942. £275 AMBULANCE PRESENTED TO A.R.P. SERVICE. The new £275 ambulance provided by Enniskillen subscriptions was presented to the County Fermanagh Civil Defence authorities, on Monday evening by Mr. W. Maxwell, organiser of the committee (consisting of Messrs. J. Ryan Taylor, J. Lusted and D. Devine), who collected the subscriptions. Mr. Maxwell said the committee was formed about 12 months ago, and aimed to collect £250. They exceeded the total by £100. The ambulance cost approximately £275, which left a balance that the committee had decided to keep for running expenses. After the war it was intended to present the ambulance to the Co. Hospital. The Civil Defence authorities would have the use of it for the duration of the war. He thanked all who had assisted in making the project a success. They had a lady driver and lady attendant for the .ambulance—Miss Scott and Mrs. Clarke; and he would like other ladies to join the Civil Defence organisation. Senator G. Whaley, chairman of. Enniskillen U.D.C., receiving the vehicle on behalf of the Civil Defence authorities, said he hoped the ambulance would never. be required in the district for war casualties. There was a very small attendance at the ceremony on the Jail Square. Those present included Capt. Shutt, county organiser of Civil Defence, and Major Henderson; Enniskillen’s A.R.P. chief. The ambulance has accommodation for four stancher cases and is extremely well fitted.      ‘

26-9-1940. FATALITY NEAR BELLEEK. OCTOGENARIAN’S FATAL INJURIES.A fatal motor cycling accident at Brollagh Hill, Belleek on Tuesday of last week was investigated by Mr. G. Warren, coroner and a jury at an inquest on Wednesday. The deceased was Andrew Roohan, aged 86 of Brollagh, who died eight hours knocked down by a motor-cycle at Brollagh Hill at three o’clock approximately. Andrew Roohan, son gave evidence of identification and of seeing his father lying injured on the side of the road. To Mr. P. J. Flanagan, solicitor, for Peter Francis McGovern, Garrison, who was riding the motor cycle. Witness said his father could hear when the voice was raised a little.

Dr. George Kelly, Belleek, stated that he examined deceased on the roadside after the accident. Witness described deceased’s many wounds and gave his opinion that death was due to haemorrhage following injuries together with senility. Witness had treated deceased in the last six months for deafness. Mrs. Teresa Keown, Tullymore, gave evidence that when walking along the road with her daughter and with a baby in her arms, deceased overtook. They walked up the hill and her daughter warned them that a motor-cycle coming behind. Deceased, who was on the outside, looked round partly to his right and the next thing she saw was deceased lying on the road ten yards ahead. The motor-cycle was ridden by McGovern and he had a passenger on behind. To Mr. Flanagan, witness said her opinion was that the motor cyclist had plenty of room to pass on the right without hitting deceased.

Corpl. Francis Hugh Green, R.A.F., who was in the vicinity, stated he heard the sound of brakes being applied. Constable George S. Acheson, R.U.C. deposed to finding deceased lying on the side of the road. The road at the point of impact was eighteen feet wide with an 18-inch grass verge on either side. The motor cyclist (McGovern) pointed a spot five and a half feet from the right-hand side of the road as the point of impact. Witness put in a statement alleged to have been made by McGovern, who stated a pillion passenger and he were coming from Belleek. At Brollagh he saw the man, woman and child on the road in front. As he was about to pass them deceased, he alleged rushed straight to his right. He pulled the machine to the right in an effort to avoid deceased, but the front wheel struck him and deceased and the two men on the machine fell. The reason he did not sound a warning of approach was because he had no bell or horn on the motor cycle. He had two years’ experience of motor cycling. Hr could not have pulled to the left as it would thereby have endangered the lives of the woman and child. McGovern told the jury he had nothing to add to the statement. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony and the Coroner, Head-Constable Briggs and the foreman of the jury expressed sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

1942 Fermanagh Herald. Belleek Attack.

8-8-1942. SMUGGLER ESCAPES BY RIVER SWIM. LARGE LOAVES SEIZURE BY NEWTOWNBUTLER POLICE. A seven a.m. chase of smugglers on the Monaghan-Fermanagh border last week led to the capture by Sergt. Blevins and Constable Freeman, Newtownbutler, of a large quantity of loaves. Sergt. Blevins, newly transferred to Newtownbutler from Belleek, where his customs work had gained him a wide reputation, surprised two men on the banks of the River Finn, which at this point is the border between the two States. The men were conveying loaves to a ‘’cot,” which is a large unwieldy float for carrying cattle across lakes and rivers in Fermanagh. On the arrival of the police, the cot, drawn up at the Six-County side of the river, already held a large consignment of loaves. As the police rushed to the “cot’’ one man made off across fields in the direction of the border. The other man, divesting himself of his clothes, put his pants around his neck and plunged into the icy-cold water and swam the thirty yards of river to Twenty- Six County territory. Both men made good their escape. The police seized all the loaves and the “cot’ which was later conveyed to Enniskillen. They also found and seized the jacket, waistcoat, boots and other clothing, excepting the trousers of the swimmer.

8-8-1942. TYRES SEIZED AT ENNISKILLEN. Seeing a man dragging two large bags along a railway line at Enniskillen, Sergt. McNally and Constable Walker investigated and found in the bags several doz. bicycle tyres which they seized.

8-8-1942. CUSTOM ACTIVITIES INTENSIFIED. Customs officers along the entire stretch of the Border (on both sides) from Pettigo to Clones are redoubling their efforts to prevent smuggling and the quantity of goods finding their way across from either side must have fallen to such an extent as to be a very small proportion of the former quantities. Trains and buses are gone through almost “with a fine comb” and many cross-border time schedules have been completely upset by the customs delay for months past, but more particularly of late. The intensified efforts, while naturally showing fair returns in seizures, are not producing nearly the same proportion of captures as in former times, the reason probably being that those with an inclination to smuggling are being ‘‘headed off” by the knowledge of what awaits them on arrival at the Customs post. This, of course, refers to ordinary travellers, and does not affect the professional smugglers who presumably have other means of getting across their consignments of prohibited goods. But even these find the more intensive police watch on both sides distinctly more discouraging.

5-9-1942. GLENFARNE NEIGHBOURS’ DISPUTE. AN ASSAULT CASE. “ Jealousy Over Land ” CASE AT KILTYCLOGHER COURT. At Kiltyclogher District Court on Tuesday, before Mr., Flattery, District Justice, Patrick McDermott, a minor, through his father, Peter McDermott, Lougnross, summoned Peter Clancy, of the same place, for alleged assault.

Mr. Alfred McMorrow, B.A., L.L.B., appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. P. O’Flynn, solicitor, Manorhamilton, appeared for defendant. Patrick McDermott, in evidence, stated that a few evenings before the alleged assault had taken place, Mrs. Clancy was milking a cow on the road and the cow had .its head across a gate leading into his (plaintiffs) father’s field. There had been some words between defendant’s wife and himself on that occasion about trespass, and a few days later, when he (plaintiff), was riding down the road on a donkey, Peter Clancy had come down the road meeting him and had knocked him off the donkey with a blow of a spade shaft and had got on top of him, pounding him with his knees. He had to take through another man’s land to escape as he could, not pass Clancy’s house.

Mr. O’Flynn—-Were you not prosecuted some time ago in this Court for stealing Clancy’s fowl?

Witness—It was my brother took the fowl; I only accompanied him.

Mr. O’Flynn—You were along with your brother, and for that reason you have spite in for Clancy. Do you know anything of a well between Clancy’s land and the land of a man named Flynn?—There is water in a shough; it is not a well.

Mr. O’Flynn — Why did you put bushes around that well from which the Clancy’s get water ?—I did it to stop trespass of cattle.

Mr. O’Flynn—On the evening of this terrible assault was Clancy thatching? — He was not.

Mr. O’Flynn—I put it to you that Clancy was thatching, and when you came down the road he came down the ladder and asked you what filthy language you had used to his wife. – He was not thatching.

Did you call Clancy a grabber?—-No.

You didn’t go home to tell your father about this terrible assault? A slap was all you got.

Peter McDermott, father of plaintiff, in evidence, stated that he suffered a lot with Clancy, all owing to jealousy over a bit of land he got. Clancy’s cattle were always on his land.

Mr. McMorrow-—You were going to town on the day of the assault? — I was going to the town, and I went to Clancy’s house and asked for a drink of water. Clancy came round the house with a knife in his hand, and said to me “When I get up to that son of yours it won’t be good for him.”

Mr, .O’Flynn — You went to the house of your greatest enemy and you asked for water. Did you get milk? — I did.

Mr. O’Flynn — You got more than you asked for. Was Clancy thatching?—I don’t know.

Mr. O’Flynn — You say he had a knife in his hand? Of course that knife was for cutting the scallops. Did he complain about the language your son used to his wife, and did you tell him to correct your son every time he heard him because he uses language like that at home?—I don’t remember.

5-9-1942. Clones Call for Reprieve—At the meeting of Clones Urban Council on the motion of Mr. McCabe, seconded by Mr. O’Connor, it was decided to send the following telegram to  the Duke of Abercorn:—“The newly elected Urban District Council of Clones composed of all shades of religion and politics, begs your Grace to use your prerogative of mercy for the reprieve of the six young men under sentence of death. By doing so you will ensure goodwill and friendship amongst the people on both sides of the border.”

 

5-9-1942. BELFAST YOUTH EXECUTED. WILLIAMS BORE UP WELL TO THE END. EARLY MORNING SCENES. POUCE PRECAUTIONS IN VICINITY OF PRISON. Thomas Joseph Williams, aged 19 was executed at Belfast Prison on Wednesday morning at 8 o’clock, all efforts to secure his reprieve having failed. At 8.15 a.m. a notice intimating that the death sentence had been carried out in their presence was posted on the prison gate and signed Robert Henderson, Sheriff for Belfast, George Stewart, Justice of the Peace, Thomas Moore Stuart, Governor of the prison, and Rev. T. McAllister, Chaplain.

Young Williams bore up well to the end. He had been visited by relatives a short time prior to the execution and his spiritual comforts were attended to by priests in attendance. Precautions against a demonstration were taken by the police and crowds who gathered at various points at the approaches to the jail and knelt in prayer.

No people were allowed into Crumlin Road for a distance of about 200 yards in front of the prison. A police car patrolled the area around the prison and a strong cordon of police was also drawn around the district.      .

As eight o’clock was striking there was an opposition demonstration in Old Park Road when about 100 women and girls gathered and sung ‘’God Save the King” and British songs and engaged in cheering. They were forced into side streets by the police.

Williams, with five others was convicted and sentenced at the Assize Commission in August on the charge of causing the death of Constable Murphy, R.U.C., by shooting in April. An appeal to the Court of Criminal Appeal over a week ago was dismissed. A Nationwide appeal for the reprieve of the youths was without result in the case of Williams. On Sunday last Lord Abercorn’s statement announcing the reprieve of five of the youths was issued but it stated that the law must take its course in the case of Williams.

LORD ABERCORN’S STATEMENT. The statement issued at Stormont Castle said that the Six-County Governor had considered the cases of Thomas J. Williams, William J. Perry, Henry Cordner, John T. Oliver, Joseph Cahill and Patrick Simpson, ‘’prisoners lying under sentence of death in His Majesty’s Prison Belfast,” and decided that in the case of Williams the law must take its course, that the sentences in the cases of Perry, Cordner, Oliver and Cahill be commuted to penal servitude for life, and that Simpson’s sentence, be commuted to15 years’ penal servitude. The Governor’s decision was conveyed to the parents of the five reprieved men by Mr. D. F. Marrinan, their solicitor.

 

5-9-1942. …. and that such consecration as may be desired by the Church of England or the Catholic Church should be carried out on the individual grave. It was found that this principle met the wishes of the fighting Services better than the use of denominational plots and that it corresponded to a very deep conviction that the graves of men of very different faiths, who died, however, in a single cause, should be side by side. “If the local conditions make it necessary for a Separate Catholic plot to be formed, will you please arrange this through our District Inspector.’’ The Chairman—I suppose the Council would have no objection to that. Mr. William-Kelly—It is all the same, I think. The Council decided to grant Archdeacon Gannon’s request.

5-9-1942. £100 FOR ENNISKILLEN GRAVEYARD CARETAKER. The caretaker of Enniskillen new Cemetery—Mr. Jas. H. Kerr—applied to Enniskillen Rural Council for an increase of salary. The application, made last May, was adjourned till Tuesday, when the members had received the report of the Committee relative to the acquisition by the Catholic people of their hitherto unused plot. Mr. Kerr, who has £50 a year with free house, coal and light, plus £7 10s 0d a year war bonus, said he was afraid of the extension throwing so much additional work on him that, with the scarcity of  labour, he would find it difficult to cope with it. On the proposal of Mr. J. J. Bowler, seconded by Mr. A. Wilson, the Council unanimously agreed to increase Mr. Kerr’s salary to £100 a-year and to make him wholly responsible for the carrying out of all work at the Cemetery. -The Clerk pointed out that on many occasions the Registrar was not given sufficiently early notice of burials.

Old Graveyards—Caretakers’ Replies. Recently complaints were made as to the state of the old graveyards in Enniskillen rural area under the care of the Rural Council, and the Clerk was directed to write to the caretakers drawing their attention, to the complaints. Here are three replies received by the Council from caretakers :— From the caretaker of the old graveyard in Kinawley—‘‘I have mowed it twice this summer—the last time less than a month ago—and am now going to mow it a third time. It is quite possible that the person or persons who complained to you about the appearance of the graveyard, made a mistake about .the identity of .the plot. You can enquire off  some local person around the village about the  appearance of the old graveyard.’’ Devenish graveyard caretaker stated  that he never had failed to mow the graveyard, while the caretaker of. Pubble cemetery, Tempo, said: ‘‘I mow it once every year, and at the same time I remove the weeds, and trim the hedge.”

5-9-1942. GARVARY PENSIONER’S ESCAPE. An old-age pensioner named Mary McQuillan, of Shankhill, Garvary, had a remarkable escape when she was knocked down by a military lorry. Found lying in a pool of blood, she was rushed to hospital where it was found that her injuries were superficial. When knocked down she was going for a jug of milk, and on reaching hospital she was still clutching the jug.

5-9-1942. CAVAN FARMER FOR TRIAL. At Cavan District Court, before District Justice Lavery, Patrick Greene (24) farmer, Enniskeen, Kingscourt, was charged with maliciously burning a quantity of hay, value £100 the property of Patrick Tinnelly, Enniskeen, and maliciously burning a cart and harness and other property, value £50. Accused was returned for trial.

5-9-1942. Rossinver Convent.—The Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement of the Mother Lurana Mary Francis House, Rossinver, County Leitrim, have pleasure in announcing that permission has been given by the Holy See to make the Mother Lurana Mary Francis House a Temporary Novitiate for the duration of the war. The time of receptions will be announced later.

5-9-1942. £2 5s for Graveyard Caretaker.—At Enniskillen Rural Council on Tuesday, Mr. J. Murphy enquired if the salary of the caretaker of Cleenish Old Graveyard had been increased recently. The Clerk (Mr. J. Brown) said originally the salary was 30/-. Then about two years ago the salaries of all graveyard caretakers were increased by 50 per cent.

5-9-1942. Catholic Burials — Enniskillen Rural Council on Tuesday, Hon. C. L. Corry, J.P., presiding, instructed its engineer, Mr. James Donnelly, to prepare a specification for carrying out certain works at the New Cemetery, where the local Catholic community are utilizing their plot in future owing to lack of space at the Catholic Cemetery.

5-9-1942. NOTICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS. THE DERBY CAFÉ,ENNISKILLEN, WILL BE CLOSED ALL DAY THURSDAY,10TH SEPT. RE-OPENING FRIDAY MORNING.

5-9-1942. BUNDORAN LADY DIES IN COUNTY FERMANAGH. The death occurred of Mrs. F. Maguire, late of’ Ocean View, Bundoran. Since the death of her husband she had resided with her son and daughter-in-law at Lattoon, Belcoo, Co. Fermanagh. At the funeral last week the chief mourners were—James Hackett, Clogher (brother); Mrs. P. Carty (daughter); John and Freddie Maguire (sons); Peter Carty (son-in-law); Mrs. J. Maguire and Mrs. F. Maguire (daughters-in-law); Miss M. Maguire (sister-in-law); Nano, Packie and John Maguire, Jose, Jack, Frankie, Paddy, Peter and Michael Carty (grandchildren).

5-9-1942. AMERICAN SOLDIER SENTENCED. SEQUEL TO FATAL STABBING. Found guilty by secret ballot of the manslaughter of a member of the British Pioneer Corps, an American soldier, Pte. William Davis (23), of Texas, was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment by a United States Army courtmartial in the Six Counties on Tuesday.He was also ordered to be dishonourably discharged from the American Army. Davis, who was found not guilty on the original charge of murdering the Pioneer Private, Owen McLoughlin, of Motherwell, will be sent back to America to serve the sentence in a penitentiary. McLaughlin was fatally stabbed on August 1st during a row at a dance in Randalstown Orange Hall.

5-9-1942. THREE TYRONE SISTERS ENTER RELIGIOUS LIFE. Miss Agnes Murray (Sister Mary Laurence) was finally professed, and her sister Winnie (Sister Bernard Therese) made her first profession at La Sainty Union Convent, Bath, on 15th August. Another sister Miss May Murray, H. Dip., has entered the Loreto order in Llandudno, North Wales. She was educated at St. Louis Convent, Carrickmacross, and University College. Dublin. Miss Winnie Murray was educated at Loreto Convent, Omagh, and the Convent High School, Southampton. They are daughters of Mr. .and Mrs. Patrick Murray, Rathfragan, Fintona.

5-9-1942. TO FIGHT TUBERCULOSIS IN BRITAIN. A number of sets of miniature radiography apparatus-the new weapon to combat tuberculosis—has been ordered and may be ready about the end of the year, Mr. Ernest Brown, British Minister of Health, disclosed on Monday opening a sanatorium at Nottingham. We have many difficult problems to solve in finding how the best use can be made of this new weapon, he said. Ideally everyone ought to undergo a regular examination and look upon it as a normal health measure. The fight against tuberculosis—that scourge happiness and destroyer of manpower has a definite, and by no means unimportant, place in the nation’s war effort.

5-9-1942. TRANSACTIONS IN BRANDY. TWO MEN FINED AT BELFAST.

CASE AGAINST ENNISKILLEN MAN. Fines totalling £125 or in default three months imprisonment were imposed by Major Dickie, R.M., in Belfast Summons Court on Desmond McGratty, Ormond Road, Dublin, in Customs prosecutions arising out of transactions in brandy. Samuel Moore, Down St., Enniskillen, was fined in sums aggregating £101 and ordered 12 months’ imprisonment without hard labour. Immediate warrants were issued against both defendants. The summons against McGratty was for being concerned in dealing in 59 bottles of brandy and a bottle of wine, with dealing wholesale in .spirits without a licence, and for causing to be harboured 446 bottles of brandy. Moore was summoned for dealing in 59 bottles of brandy, delivering spirits without a permit, dealing wholesale in spirits without a licence, and causing spirits to be harboured.

Fines of £10 were imposed on R. M. McLane and John Watters, publicans, Belfast, for failing to make an entry in their stock books and other cases against them were dismissed. The former was summoned for being concerned in dealing with 59 bottles of brandy and a bottle of wine, with receiving spirits without a permit and failing to make the necessary stock book entries, and the latter for being concerned in harbouring 446 bottles of brandy, for receiving spirits without a licence, and for failing to make the necessary stock book entries.

Mr. T. J. Campbell, K.C., M.P. (instructed by Messrs. J. Donnelly & Co.) for the defence, said if there was any offence at all it was a Customs offence, and he submitted that his clients were innocent even of the Customs charge. Mr. R. F. Sheldon (Crown Solicitor), for the Commissioners of Customs and Excise, gave notice of appeal in the Excise Cases against these two defendants.

5-9-1942. POLICE RAIDS IN BELFAST. 200 PERSONS DETAINED. Belfast police raided various districts in the city early this week and as a result 200 men have been detained. The raids began at five o’clock on Tuesday morning and the district covered include Falls Road, Ardoyne, North Queen Street, the Dock area, the Markets area, and portions of Ballymacarret and Short Strand. A very large force of police was engaged and the swoop was made simultaneously in each district. The majority of the suspects were taken from their beds, and the men, having been allowed to dress, were removed in cage cars and taken under strong escort to the cells at Chichester Street. There was intense police activity in the Falls Road area of Belfast all during Tuesday night and into the early hours of Wednesday morning.

A number of houses were raided. One man is known to have been detained. In Lisburn district there were also extensive police raids and a number of persons taken to the local barracks were questioned and afterwards released. There were many raids on Thursday night and early on Friday morning. After a night of patrol activity by armoured cars, police in tenders and on foot carried out concentrated raids at dawn. It is understood that the people detained are mostly youths, but a number of girls are also under detention.    In one case a father and his five sons were taken, leaving the mother the only remaining member of the family. . Police waited outside factories and mills and questioned young men as they left at lunch hour. Some on arriving home were detained.

In one street in the Falls, police with drawn revolvers followed a number of youths and later another chase developed when a young man jumped out the back door of a house when the police entered, and ran across the Bog Meadows. The men detained comprised dockers, factory, mill and munition workers and some A.R.P. wardens and fire watchers were taken to the barracks.

12-9-1942. BELLEEK BARRACKS ATTACKED. BOMBS FAILED TO EXPLODE, SHOTS FIRED. ENNISKILLEN HOUSE SEARCHES. At 4 o’clock on Friday morning the R.U.C. Barracks at Belleek, a short distance from the .Border, was attacked. A homemade time bomb or bombs placed near the building failed to explode. Shots were fired at the barracks and to these the police replied. The telephone wires to Enniskillen were cut but the police got a message through to Kesh from which a police party under Head-Constable  Conlin rushed to the assistance of their Belleek colleagues. After less than half an hour, however, the firing ceased and the only damage caused was a few windows broken in the barracks. About fifty shots in all were fired. Considerable police activity followed, several men in the Belleek district being questioned. Police from County Head-quarters at Enniskillen, under County Inspector Gorman for several hours investigated and received reports on the occurrence.

ENNISKILLEN SEARCHES. In Enniskillen district during Friday six houses were visited by a party of armed police and detectives. Nothing was found it is believed. One mart, Mr. Bertie Love, of Mill St., Enniskillen, was painting on the roof of a hut several miles from the town when he was taken into custody. He was later released. In the interval, he was lengthily and closely questioned by several police officers. His house was one of those searched. Other houses raided included that of Mr. Sean Nethercott, Paget Square, well known Fermanagh Nationalist, and Mr. W. J. Monaghan, U.D.C., P.L.G. Several hours were spent in each search.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT. On Friday night R.U.C. headquarters issued this statement:—“At 4 a.m. to-day Belleek barracks, Co. Fermanagh was attacked by fire and bombs. About fifty shots were fired. Police returned the fire. After calling on the police to surrender, the assailants disappeared.

RANDALSTOWN AFFAIR. The explosion at Randalstown barracks, caused by a bomb placed on the sill, blew in one window and the surrounding brickwork, cut the heavy steel bars over the window, badly damaged adjacent houses and broke windows for a hundred yards on either side of the barracks. One of the injured policemen, Sergeant McCammond was flung across the day room and through a door opposite the window. He had been doing clerical work at the time. Constable Bunting, the other injured man, who was standing in the centre of the room was blown against another door and knocked semi-conscious. The sergeant was found to have a fracture of the left arm and severe abrasions to the left leg when he was removed to the Royal Victoria Hospital, where he was stated last night to be comfortable. The constable was not .seriously hurt. The day room is only 9ft. by 12ft. The floor was littered with bricks and other debris, while the walls were pitted with holes.

12-9-1942. ROSLEA COURT BORDER MERCHANT FINED. At Rosslea Petty Sessions before Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., John Maguire, merchant, Lackey, Roslea (near Clones), was charged on three counts with being in possession of the following goods with intent to evade export prohibition— 8 cwts. rice, 5 cwts. barley, 2½ cwts. S/R flour, 3 cwts. currants, 2 stones sultanas, 96 tins salmon and 42 lbs. soap powder. Mr. J. Cooper, Crown Solicitor, prosecuted, and Mr, Herbert, solicitor defended. Martin Shaw McMullen, of McKay and Leetham, Belfast, deposed to selling the goods to defendant on September 23rd, 1941. He had never seen defendant before. Cross-examined by Mr. Herbert, witness said there were no restrictions on the goods at that time.

Sergeant Moffatt deposed to visiting defendant’s premises, which were about 20 yards from the border, on Oct. 29th. Defendant had a very small stock and the goods which were seized were found in defendant’s dwelling-house. At that time witness could find no trace of baking soda or lentils which defendant had purchased in Belfast. In a statement defendant said half the goods were for a Mr. Somerville who owned a shop about 1½ miles away. Defendant refused to sign the statement.

Defendant, in evidence, stated he was an ex-serviceman and had served in the British army in France and in the East during the last war. He had been in business for himself since 1934 and was on friendly terms with Mr. Somerville, Clones with whom he had previously been employed. His purchases from January, 1941 to August, 1942, were £910. Witness had never any intention of smuggling these goods across the border. Convicting, defendant of being in possession of the goods for export, the R.M, imposed a fine of £60, with time to pay. He dismissed the other two charges. He ordered the forfeiture of 2 cwts. of barley and 2 cwts. of currants.

12-9-1942. MISCONDUCT AT WEEKLY DANCES. AMERICAN OFFICERS’ COMPLAINT.  A letter was read from the officer in charge of U.S.A. military police, regarding dances held in the Minor Townhall—particularly those held on Saturday nights, under the auspices of the football club. It stated: “The door keepers have no limit in admission; the result being that the atmosphere is appalling. There is no room to dance and when evilly disposed. There is no room to dance and when evilly disposed persons start a “brawl’ the hall is so crowded it is impossible to pick out the participants. We suggest that the number of persons admitted be limited to 150 at the outside. We are agreeable to place joint police patrols at the door, who will be responsible for seeing that the service men do not gain admittance after the correct number had been reached, and also our patrols will enter the hall if there is any disorder among the service personnel at the request of the door keeper or a member of the dance committee. We take this opportunity of expressing our appreciation to all classes in Enniskillen for the hospitality and cooperation we have invariably received.” In a subsequent letter it was stated: “We can no longer provide police patrols for duty at the above mentioned dances as we are not getting the cooperation of the organisers.’’

The Chairman (Mr. Johnston) said the difficulty was 200 to 300 people go to this dance and the place gets choked up. One dance last week had to be stopped on account of the conduct. There was only one thing they could do and it would be a drastic remedy—close the hall altogether to these dances. The Council made an order that the number of persons to be admitted to a dance in the Minor Hall be limited to 150.

12-9-1942. LEITRIM COUNCIL SYMPATHY. THE BALLINAMORE TRAGEDY. Mr. Mooney proposed a vote of sympathy with the relatives of the victims of the Ballinamore drowning tragedy. He happened to be in Ballinamore the previous Tuesday, and he witnessed a scene of sorrow there which he hoped never to see again. It was a consolation to know that the children who lost their lives were daily attenders at Mass and communicants. Therefore they were well prepared to meet their Creator, and their parents had the whole-hearted sympathy of the Council in their bereavement. Mr, P. J. Reynolds, in seconding said it was his intention as a member of the Council for Ballinamore area to propose a vote of sympathy as he thought according to procedure the agenda had to be finished first before taking up consideration of such a resolution. The parents had the wholehearted sympathy of the Leitrim County Council in the great loss which they had sustained. The Chairman said the sad occurrence had cast a gloom not alone over the Ballinamore area but it caused a painful shock throughout “Eire.” They sympathised deeply with the relatives of those children.

12-9-1942. DEARER 26-CO. BREAD. The price of the 41b. batch loaf is to be raised in the 26 Counties from ls to ls 1d, delivered, as from September 21. The price will be Is when sold at bakers’ shops. The price of flour (including wheaten meal) will be increased South of the Border from 52s 6d a sack of 280 lbs. to 60s free on rail at port mills, as from September 14th. The flour price increase is attributed to the new guaranteed price of 50s a barrel for Irish wheat,

12-9-1942. GLANGEVLIN TRAGEDY. MAN FOUND HANGED. A distressing tragedy was discovered in Glengevlin on Friday afternoon when Peter McGovern, Bealballie, Glangevlin was found dead, suspended from a rope, in his home. A niece of deceased, who had acted as housekeeper for him, had left on the previous evening to visit her sister’s house, some miles away. On her return on Friday afternoon she found the door bolted and. was unable to gain admittance. Securing assistance the door was forced .and the grim discovery made. THE INQUEST. At an inquest held on Saturday a verdict of suicide while of unsound mind was returned. It was stated that deceased had not been in good health since a recent illness. Sympathy was extended to his relatives. The funeral, which took place to Glangevlin, was largely attended.

12-9-1942. BALLYSHANNON COURT. JAIL SENTENCES FOR ASSAULT. At Ballyshannon District Court, before Mr. J. O’Hanrahan, D.J., Patrick and John Rooney, Single Street, Bundoran, were each sentenced to two months’ imprisonment with hard labour for assaulting Charles Gorman, who said he was cut in several places, Lieut. James Mahony, National Army, said one of the Rooneys held Gorman as the other beat him. Witness interfered and took the man away. John Rooney said Gorman started the row.

12-9-1942. KESH MAN GETS DECREE. A decree for £25 was given in a civil bill brought by Francis Maguire, Derrynieve, Kesh, against Lena Gallagher, Tourist House, Bundoran, for that amount due for. cash lent and advanced by plaintiff to defendant on the 20tk October, 1938.

12-9-1942. 60 DOZEN EGGS SEIZED. Imposing a penalty of £100 with a recommendation that it be reduced to £5 in a case in which James McGonigle, Corlea, was convicted of attempting to smuggle 60 dozen eggs across the Border, the Justice said he hoped it would serve as a warning to people on this side of the Border not to be catspaws for those outside the jurisdiction of the State. Garda McGarvey said when questioned McGonigle, who was carrying three boxes of eggs, in a donkey cart in the direction of Corlea, said he was conveying them for a day’s pay from a shop in Cashelard to a man who lived in the Belleek district. The eggs were seized.

12-9-1942. DRUMKEERAN DISTRICT COURT LICENCE APPLICATIONS. Mr. M, J. C. Keane, District Justice, presided at this Court on Wednesday. DANCE LICENCE. Mr. H. Murray, solicitor (Mr. C. L. Flynn), Carrick-on-Shannon, applied on behalf of Mrs. Celia Crowne, Drumkeeran, for an annual dance licence in respect of Crowne’s Hall, Drumkeeran.

Superintendent McNamara, Carrick-on-Shannon, said there was no objection to the licence and the Justice granted the application as asked by Mr. Murray— twenty dances in the year from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight. Mr. Thomas Dowd, Gluckawn, was granted a licence to hold a dance at Gluckawn National School, the guards having no objection.

ANNUAL LICENCES. The publicans in Drumkeeran and district had their annual applications listed for the renewal of their licence and as there was no objection the applications were granted, as also exemptions for early opening on fair mornings.

Mr. Patrick Dolan, .Drumkeeran, applied for the renewal of his spirit grocery wholesale and retail licence, and the Justice inquired if there was any proof of valuation with regard to the wholesale licence. Mr. Early, court clerk, said the applicant was within the limitation and had been granted a licence on a previous occasion. The renewal of the licence was accordingly granted.

12-9-1942. D.J. SUGGESTS TRANSPORT FACILITIES TO COURT. MINERS’ ABSENCE HOLDS UP CASE. Fifteen miners, summoned to give evidence at Ballyfarnon in a series of cases under the Holidays (Employees) Act, 1939, against Michael Leydon, managing director Arigna Collieries, Ltd., failed to appear, and Mr. Keane, D.J., adjourned the summonses for a month for their attendance. It was alleged that Mr. Leydon had failed to give workers annual leave and public holidays, and had failed to pay, assessor pay when they quitted his employment.

Mr. M. Lavin, Inspector of Mines and Factories, said Mr. Leydon had told him that he thought the Act did not apply to his mines. Mr. Leydon, after the issue of the summonses, sent a letter to the Department enclosing receipts from the persons concerned stating that they had got payment in respect of assessor pay, annual leave and holidays. Mr. C. E. Callan, defending, said the inspector had prevented Mr. Leydon increasing the men’s wages. The men could not be present at court owing to transport difficulties. Mr. Keane thought that some effort to transport them to court might he made.

12-9-1942. SMALL FINES PROTEST. CROWN SOLICITOR AND R.M. When at Tynan Petty Sessions on Saturday, Mr. Austin, R.M., fined Patk. Carbery, Balteagh, Middletown, £15 for having been concerned in carrying 35 bottles whisky, uncustomed goods, Mr, J. P. Best (Crown Solicitor) said it was no use the Commissioners getting small penalties like that.He again protested when Fras. Hughes, Lislanley, was fined £3 in respect of two cycle tyres.

If these penalties were to continue he suggested to the Commissioners that they make the minimum fine £100. Mr. Austin — If you want to fill the prisons well and good. Mr. Best—Small penalties encourage smuggling. Mr. Austin—I don’t believe in imprisonment unless it is absolutely necessary. Mr. Best — You don’t seem to think there is a war on.

SUING FOR £1,000 FINE. When Patrick Hamill, John St., Portadown, was charged in respect of 2 lbs. tea. Mr. Best said that under a new Order the authorities were suing for a. £1,000 fine. The R.M.—Very well, I will fine him £1,000. Then he goes to jail. Defendant—I’ll go to prison rather than pay £1,000. Mr. Best, (to the R.M.)—If you want to make yourself ridiculous you can impose the fine. A fine of £3 was imposed.

12-9-1942. BLACK-OUT WARNING. “I would like people clearly to understand that penalties will be very heavy in the coming winter if they don’t blackout, said Major Dickie, R.M:, at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday. Addressing District Inspector Peacocke, his  Worship said: “At the same time, Mr. Peacock, I might suggest, that it would be well to draw, the attention of the military authorities to the practice of military cars and lorries not only passing through Enniskillen, but parking in Enniskillen, with unscreened headlights full on. I counted six of them at midnight with blazing headlights. . The whole town of Enniskillen must have been blazing with lights visible from the air for miles away,” he said. D. I. Peacocke—That matter has been given attention already. Of course you understand we must approach the authorities. In, the black-out cases before the Court, his Worship imposed fines of 5/- and costs in the majority and in one a fine of 20/- and costs was ordered.

COCOA SALE: £31 FINE. Thomas Coogan, merchant, Ballybay, was fined £20 and his brother, Patrick Coogan, £5 when summoned at Ballybay for charging 3/9 for a lb. of cocoa. They were also fined £2 each for selling the  cocoa to a non-customer For refusing to give a. receipt a further fine of £2 was imposed on Patrick Coogan.

12-9-1942. ROSLEA DROWNING TRAGEDY. FATHER’S STORY AT INQUEST. How a horrified father watched his son drown in a lake a short distance from the shore was described at an inquest held in Rosslea on Wednesday of last week into the circumstances of the death of a boy named Frank Morton (18) son of Constable Francis Morton, R.U.C., Rosslea, who: was drowned in Drumacritten Lake on the previous evening. The inquest was held by Mr. James Mulligan, Coroner, sitting without a jury. District Inspector Smyth, Lisnaskea, conducted the proceedings for the Crown. The death of young Morton, who was a general favourite with everyone, caused a pall of gloom in the district. A lad of fine physique, measuring six feet in height, the deceased was about to be accepted in the police force, and his untimely death has evoked widespread sympathy. A native of Co. Armagh, his father was transferred from Derrylin about five months ago, Deceased was his second eldest child, fond, of all kind of sport and a remarkably strong swimmer.

At the inquest, Constable Horton, who was obviously overcome with grief, stated that on the evening of the tragedy witness left his home about 6.30 to have a shot with his gun. His sons, Frank (dead) and George, asked him where he was going, and witness told them so that they would know where to get him. Later witness shot two wild ducks rising off  Drumacritten Lake. Witness tried to get his setter dog to go out for the ducks, but the dog would not go, as it had not seen the ducks on the water. Witness gave up trying to get the ducks and was going away when his two sons arrived. Frank said he would go in for the ducks, and started to take off his clothes. Deceased was a strong swimmer. His son entered the water, and when he was about halfway turned to come back, shouting for help. Witness ran up to a .field to get assistance, but when, he returned he could only see bubbles where his son had disappeared. A verdict of accidental death was returned and sympathy expressed with the bereaved family and relatives.

12-9-1942. SYMPATHY WITH POLICEMAN. When Constable Frank Morton, R.U.C., was giving evidence in a black-out case, Major Dickie said he would like to mention how much they all sympathised with Constable Morton on the occasion of his recent sad bereavement. They were all extremely sorry. Mr. Cooper also, associated himself with the expression of sympathy and Constable Morton, returned thanks. Constable Morton’s 18-year-old son had been drowned in a lake hear Roslea a couple, of days previously. Fines were imposed in a number of cases against householders for not having their premises effectively blacked-out, and Major Dickie said the .penalties would be much heavier this winter if there were any complaints from the R.A.F.

1942. August.

 

1-8-1942.ENNISKILLEN MAN SENTENCED. EXPORT OF LORRIES. John O’Connor, a 26-year-old motor trader, of Enniskillen, was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment when he pleaded guilty before a Special Criminal Court in Dublin to four charges arising out of the purchase and exportation of motor-lorries from the 26 county area to a six county border area. Mr. Trant McCarthy, solicitor, for O’Connor, pleaded for a fine instead of imprisonment and said that O’Connor had been followed by tragedy from his early days. He was suffering from tuberculosis from 1935 to 1937 spent two years in hospital and was, compelled to use crutches after his discharge. He was about to undergo, a serious operation in a few days. The Court said that they could not vary the sentence.

1-8-1942. GAELIC PILCRIMS TO LOUGH DERG. One hundred and. thirty Gaelic speaking pilgrims left Dublin on Saturday on a Pilgrimage to Lough Derg sponsored by Croabh na h-Aiseirghe. It has for its object “Siochain an Domhain agus Saoirse na h-Eireann. They were joined by a party of Gaelic speakers from Tyrone and other parts of the Six Counties. The spiritual directors were An t-Athair Raghnall MacGiolla Gunna, O.F.M., and An t-Athair Leonardo Mattimoe, O.F.M. The Dublin pilgrims arrived back in the city on Monday.

1-8-1942.SEIZURES NEAR KESH.CATTLE AND SHEEP. Head-Constable Conlin, R.U.C., Kesh, Co. Fermanagh seized 200 sheep at Drumarn, Lisnarick, on suspicion of being imported from the 26 counties. He also seized 7 head of large cattle at Coalisland, Tyrone, on suspicion of being imported at the Fermanagh border.

1-8-1942.FERMANAGH YOUTH KILLED. EVIDENCE AT INQUEST. Charles Johnston, aged 20 years, a shop assisting at Gola, Lisbellaw, was killed in a motoring accident at Gola on Sunday. At about 6.45 p.m. he was travelling on a motor-cycle from Lisbellaw direction and at the cross roads he collided with a motor car being driven from Lisnaskea by Mr. B. L. Winslow, solicitor, Enniskillen. Death was instantaneous. At the inquest on Monday evening evidence was given that deceased emerged from the side road at Gola creamery and dashed into the side of Mr, Winslow’s car, which was on its proper side of the road. Deceased struck his forehead against the hinge of the door on the right hand side of the car, and went on for 19 or 20 yards when lie fell off the bicycle. A verdict was returned that death was due to haemorrhage and severe laceration of the brain and no blame was attached to Mr. Winslow. Sympathy was tendered to the relatives of deceased. Deceased resided with his uncle, Mr. George Clingan, Belleisle. Formerly he lived at Ballycassidy, when his mother, the late Mrs. Johnston, taught at Shanmullagh School.

1-8-1942.21,000 BOOKS GIVEN. ENNISKILLEN PAPER DRIVE. The people of Enniskillen and district responded on Saturday to the appeal for 5,000 books to help to swell the total in the waste paper competition. The town hopes to get a £1,000 prize. A temporary receiving stall was erected at The Diamond, and during the day this became the Mecca for hundreds of people who deposited their cast novels, magazines, etc. The local hon. organiser for salvage, Mr. D. Devine, had the assistance of several ladies, the Enniskillen Boy Scouts, Wolf Cubs and Girl Guides, as well as the Urban, Council employees. During the entire morning a U.S. Army band rendered selections. Shortly after 2.0 o’clock it was announced that 15,000 books had been received, and at 6.0 p.m. the total was in the region of 21,000.

1-8-1942. MILITARY EXERCISES IN TYRONE AND FERMANAGH. Large scale and realistic combined exercises in which Home Guards, military and auxiliary services in the Counties of Tyrone and Fermanagh took place during last week. The opposition was provided by the United States Forces whose tanks units, police, and A.P.R. services were in action.The tests were carried out in regard to communications between Tyrone and Fermanagh and in the matter of general administration and efficiency. (Ed. Who won?)

1-8-1942. Gaelic Festival at Ederney. PRIEST’S APPEAL FOR THE LANGUAGE, MUSIC, SONG AND DANCE. AN INTERESTING PROGRAMME. The greatest concourse of people ever seen in St. Joseph’s Park; Ederney, assembled on Sunday last to witness and partake in a real feast of Gaelic song, dance and sport while the close association between Gaelic culture and religion was indicated by the inclusion in the programme for the day of competition in Plain Chant. Rev. P. McCarney, P.P., in opening the proceedings, first expressed his regret and the regret of the people in general at the enforced absence of Mr. Cahir Healy, and hoped that we would soon have him amongst us once more as, no doubt he was present that day in spirit. In the unavoidable absence, he said, of prominent Gaels better qualified than he to deliver the opening oration he would enumerate a few points of interest in connection with such events as he was called on to declare open. The work of the Gaelic League is too well known to require any explanation. One can easily see evidence of preservation of Gaelic culture in language, arts and sports. Such events as these serve to remind the people, that as Irishmen and women they have a heritage to be cherished and handed on intact to future generations. When the most of Europe was uncivilised Ireland was the seat of culture and learning —a culture dating right back to prehistoric times and the Gaels were one of the most civilised and cultured races that ever inhabited any part of Europe. When aggression and other misfortunes fell to the lot of the Irish people and they had a series of bitter trials to endure this culture was in grave danger of destruction. The national language was prohibited and a foreign one substituted; education was denied to Irish children and later teachers who knew no Irish were appointed to teach children, who knew no English. In spite of these misfortunes the language still lives to-day, thanks to the patriotism and devotion of our forefathers and, in later years, to the founders and members of the Gaelic League. Recent misfortunes, continued Father Mc Carney, taught the people of France to cherish the ideals of their country and aid in bringing about a revival of patriotism and realisation of the duty they owed to past generations, but it is to be hoped that we in Ireland may awake, without the bursting of shells or crashing of bombs, to a fuller realisation of the beauties and greatness of our country, its language, music and sport. (Applause).

MUSICAL SELECTIONS. Appropriate musical selections were rendered by Tummery Pipers under the direction of their able bandmaster, Mr. James Irvine, and their rousing music and colourful native costumes added much to the brilliance and enjoyment of the proceedings. In this connection too St. Dympna’s Ceilidhe Band, Dromore, provided first class entertainment. Priests and people from all the surrounding parishes were present and helped to make the event the success that it was.

COMPETITION RESULTS.

Plain Chant 1.  Sacred Heart Choir, Irvinestown; 2, St. Joseph’s Choir, Ederney.

Songs in Gaelic—1, Ederney School Choir; 2 Irvinestown Boys’ Choir.

Anglo-Irish songs—1, Irvinestown Boys’ Choir; 2, Ederney School Choir.

Lilting—1, Michael McCann, Dromore; 2, Patrick Maguire, Sydare.

Traditional violin—1, P. Maguire, Sydare; 2, P. McNabb, Tummery.

Melodeon—1, Jack McCann, Dromore; 2, Sean McVeigh, do.

Three-hand reel. — 1, Knocknagor Troupe; 2, Kilskeery Troupe.

Hornpipe (senr.)- l, Mairead Bennett, Dublin.

Jig and hornpipe (junr.) —1, Knocknagor Troupe; 2, Kilskeery Troupe.

Ceilidhe Band—St. Dympna’s, Dromore.

Father Burns, C.C., Devenish, contributed humorous recitations which were greatly appreciated.

FOOTBALL COMPETITION.

First round—Irvinestown (8 pts.) v. Edemey (7 pts.). Dromore(12 pts.) v Pettigo (6 pts.) Final—Dromore (15 pts.) v. Irvinestown (1 pt.)

Valuable prizes were presented to successful competitors. The organisation committee was in charge of Fr. M. Donnelly, C.C., Ederney.

To complete the festivities a very successful Rinnce Mor was held in St. Josephs Hall, under the direction of Rev. E. O’Flanagan, C.C.

Gifts were presented to Mr. James McDonnell, Cahore, Ederney, and Mr. Monaghan, Derrybrick, Kesh, and Mr. P. Rooney, Ardmoney, Brookeborough.

1-8-1942.FAILED TO PLOUGH. FARMER FINED AT DERRYCONNELLY. “I cannot see any excuse whatever,” said Major Dickie, R.M., at Derrygonnelly Petty Sessions, on Friday, when he fined Robert Acheson, of Drumskimbly, £40, with £3/14/0 costs, on a summons brought by the Ministry of Agriculture, for failing in part to comply with a direction to plough.

Mr. J. Cooper, D.L., Grown Solicitor, prosecuting, said that defendant was served with a direction on 2nd January, 1942, requiring him to plough ten acres of his holdings in Drumskimbly, Cosbystown, Glenwinny, Kilgarrow, and Sandhill by the 30th. January, 1942, and a further 15½ acres by 11th April, 1942. Mr. Jordan, Ministry’s Inspector, visited the holding on 4th July, 1941, and reported that the area was 186 acres, of which an area of 51 acres was arable. On the 17th June, 1942, when the holding was visited, it was found that the total area cultivated was 12 acres leaving a default of 13½ acres. Mr. E. C. Ferguson, LL.B., M.P., defending, said that defendant was over 80 years of age; and had a nephew living with him. They managed to plough, and crop 12 acres. In that area, as his Worship knows, owing to work of national importance, labour was very scarce, and in fact if they had not a tractor well on in January they were likely to be left without one. The only defence was that defendant could not get sufficient labour and the area of his lands was scattered all over. Defendant said if he could have got the labour he would have been willing to crop as much as wanted. His Worship—Other farmers are in exactly, the same position and they managed to do it. Mr. Cooper said there was a previous conviction, defendant having been fined £10 last year. Mr. Ferguson—I think he did his best in the circumstances. His Worship—I cannot see any excuse whatever. Every other farmer in the county is doing his best. They seem to make no effort. .Defendant was fined as stated above.

1-8-1942. MANORHAMILTON NEWS. County Council Elections. Very little interest is being shown in the forthcoming elections. Probably the old members will again come forward. Not for years has Manorhamilton had a representative on the County Council and it is rumoured that the town will put up a candidate.

Clerical Appointment—Rev. M. Gilbride, recently ordained, has been appointed assistant to Rev. T. F. Brady, C.C., pending the appointment of a successor to the late Rt. Rev. Monsignor Soden, P.P., V.G., P.A.

Recent Deaths—The death of Mr. Jas. McLoughlin, Ross, which took place at an advanced age is deeply regretted. All his sons were prominent in the old I.R.A. movement. The funeral was large and representative. Another regretted death is that of Mrs. Feely, Castlemile, which took place last week. There was a large attendance at the funeral.

 

1-8-1942. TRACTOR OFFENCES. BALLINAMALLARD MEN SUMMONED. At Clogher Petty Sessions on Thursday Henry W. West, of Mullaghmeen, Ballinamallard, was fined Is for failing to show the maximum speed and laden weight on a tractor at Killclay, Augher, on 9th July, l5s for failure to have a reflecting mirror on the vehicle and for having no silencer attached he was dealt with under the probation Act. Terence McCann, of Beagh, Coa, Ballinamallard, the driver, for using the vehicle without having speed and weight displayed, was fined 1s, for having no bell or horn Is, for failing to have a reflecting mirror 5s, and a summons for having no silencer on the machine was dealt with under the Probation Act.

1-8-1942. ENNISKILLEN COLLEGIATE SCHOOL FEES. The students should not be enrolled on the register of the Enniskillen Collegiate School for Girls until their fees had been paid was the suggestion of Mr. J. Coffey at the meeting of the Co. Fermanagh Education Committee in Enniskillen on Friday. He advocated that a number of defaulting parents should be sent their accounts through legal channels. Rev. J. B. Jennings said it was a far more satisfactory method to pay the fees through the bank.

1-8-1942. DEATH OF POPULAR YOUNG KILTYCLOGHER LADY MISS ANNIE McGOWAN. A gloom has been cast over a wide area by the death of Miss Annie McGowan, of the Mental Hospital nursing staff, Sligo, which occurred in the Surgical Hospital, Sligo on Thursday week, following a brief illness. The deceased lady, who was only 22, was the second daughter of Mr. Patrick McGowan, Co. C., and Mrs. McGowan, Kiltyclogher. She was a nurse in Sligo Mental Hospital for a period of years, and during that time her gentle disposition and great charm of manner won for her the esteem and affection of all with whom, she came in contact. On Friday, amid scenes of deep mourning the remains were carried from the Surgical Hospital to the borough boundary by doctors and members of the Mental Hospital staff. A guard of honour was formed along the roadside as the hearse moved into Leitrim. On approaching Kiltyclogher, the cortege was met by relatives and a large body of people, who accompanied the remains to St. Patrick’s Church, where they were received by Rev. Father Brady, C.C. The funeral which took place to Rossinver on Saturday, was the largest seen in the district for years.

1-8-1942. ROAD WORKERS’ WAGES IN LEITRIM. COUNTY COUNCIL MAKE A RECOMMENDATION. At Leitrim County Council special meeting on Saturday, Mr. S. Flynn, T.D., chairman, presiding, Mr. Hoey moved that all men employed by the Council be paid the same rate of wages as those working in the bogs. Mr. J. Flynn seconded. Mr. Hoey said that the reason he moved his motion was that the road workers in the county were treated unfairly. He said that those employed on minor relief schemes and those employed by the Land Commission were paid a higher rate. Road workers should be paid at the same rate as those employed on the turf scheme, 6/6 per day. He proposed that the road workers be given, an increase of 8d per day in order to bring their wages to 5/6 per day. Mr. Callaghan, a representative of the road workers, said that all they asked was that the matter be put up to the Department and place the matter on the right shoulders. They, had asked Mr. Hoey to bring the resolution, forward as he argued they gave as good work as any of the others who had been granted an increase. The County Surveyor said that the matter was discussed at a conference he attended in Dublin and they had no power to grant an increase to road workers. At the conference this was a burning question. The only thing to do was to make a recommendation, as this question hampered them, when work was going on. They were allowed to pay 5/6 to workers on roads off the main roads and those on main roads were only allowed 4/10. There was a differentiation between what they could pay on grant works and improvement works. He would be glad if this was settled, as the men were not inclined to come out and work on the roads. Finally it was agreed to recommend to the Department that the road workers’  wages be increased to the same basis as the bog workers, not to take effect until after the 31st March, next.

 

1-8-1942. SEQUEL TO DELIVERY AT DERRYCONNELLY. ALLEGED ATTEMPT TO EXPORT. COURT CASE ADJOURNED. The seizure of 250 lbs. of tea had a sequel at Derrygonnelly Petty Sessions on Friday, before Major Dickie, R.M., when John James Maguire and Mary Maguire, of Derrygonnelly, were charged with having in the month of November, 1941, knowingly, harboured 250 lbs of tea with intent to evade the export prohibition applicable thereto. Teresa Rooney, who is employed as a book-keeper in Lavery’s Bar, 80 Chichester Street, Belfast, said that in August last a gentleman named Maguire ordered tea to be sent to his sister, Mrs. Charles Maguire, in Derrygonnelly. In consequence of that she got in touch with a Mr. Lyons, of Donaghadee, gave him the address of Mrs. Charles Maguire, and told him to send the invoice to her. An envelope which was left in the bar was handed over to Mr. Lyons. Mr. R. A. Herbert, DL.B. (defending), called defendant, John James Maguire, to come forward, and asked witness: “Did you ever see that man before?” Witness—No; that definitely is not the gentleman gave me the order.

 

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8th 1942. THOSE BUTTER PARADES. It seems that there are some people who can be fooled all the time. The Ulster Scot having got all he wanted, having cut himself off from the rest of Ireland and sat in embittered loneliness behind an embattlement of tariffs designed to keep Irish goods out of the “ Paradise’ having for years denounced the Irish State as being just no good and a monstrosity whose existence should not be permitted, is now finding out that war’s lean and hungry grip in so far as his own bailiwick is concerned has imparted quite another hue to the land of Republican Green and that profitable and useful excursions can be made there with little or no hindrance. Thus, in hordes, are the Scots dwellers of the Six Counties pouring across the Border in search of that which cannot be had for love or money in their own quarters, and that is saying quite a lot. Anything that is rationed and everything that isn’t is fair game for these loyal sons of the Six Counties who have so suddenly discovered the catering and other amenities of the hated “Free State.”

One would think that the rigorous action only all-too rarely enforced by the Irish Customs authorities would have the approval and support of all the citizens of the State, but it appears not. Certain well-meaning people are getting up in the National assembly and suggesting that the Border seizures are creating a feeling that will lead only to the perpetuation of Partition! Was greater nonsense ever talked! The argument is that the Orange excursionists, whom the merchant and business houses of the Irish State would never see were it not for the circumstances of the times, are being won over to the national side by the courtesy and generosity of the “Southerners” with whom they are temporarily trading and that any official action taken to discourage this dealing will inevitably react against the national interests. Such is far from the truth. Scenery (and especially the scenery and panorama of well- stocked shop fronts) is the Orangeman’s sole interest in the Irish State to-day.

8-8-1942. JOTTINGS. Died While Bathing. – Private McAndrews, Belmullet, died while bathing at Rossnowlagh, near Ballyshannon.

Fatal Injuries.—Patrick Kelly (65), Drummond, Magheracloone, Carrickmacross, was fatally injured when his bicycle collided with a motor van.

Shop Entered—The confectionery shop of Mr. W. H. Creighton, Church Street, Enniskillen, was broken and entered and a quantity of sweets stolen. Police are investigating.

An Appointment.—At a special meeting of Monaghan Vocational Education Committee, Miss Maureen Duffy, a native of Co., Monaghan was appointed a commercial teacher to succeed Miss Forde, resigned.

Irvinestown Lady’s Success- Miss M. T. Dolan, S.R.N., C.M.B. has been appointed Ward Sister in the Belfast Union Hospital. She is daughter of Mrs. Dolan and the late Mr. John Dolan, Drumschool, Irvinestown.

Special Court—At a special court in Enniskillen on Monday before Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., Wm. Hynes, Nugent’s Entry, Enniskillen, was charged with a serious offence and was remanded, on £10 bail to next Enniskillen Petty Sessions on 17th inst.

New Head Constable. — Sergt. John F. Traynor, R.U.C., who, until a few years ago, was stationed, (for twelve years) in Enniskillen, has been promoted Head Constable and transferred from Mayobridge, Co. Down, to Clogher, Co. Tyrone.

Professed.—Sister St. Macarten, professed at Convent of Bon Secours, Cork, is the daughter of Mr, and Mrs. Patrick O’Daly, Lisnashannagh, Carrickmacross, and , sister of Rev. B. O’Daly, C.C, Tydavnet, and Rev. J. O‘Daly, C.C.. Los Angeles,

Band performances — In a letter to the Enniskillen Rural Council, on Tuesday the Six-County Tourist Development. Association, Ltd., stated it was felt every encouragement should be given to military and other bands to give performance at towns throughout Northern Ireland. Such performances would help to entertain the large number of people spending their holidays at home.

Alleged Desertion— At a special court in Enniskillen Benjamin Cyril Rees a serving soldier, charged with being an absentee from his unit, was remanded in custody to await a military escort. J. Freeman gave evidence of finding Rees in Newtownbutler sub-district wearing civilian attire. As a result of enquiries made and assistance given by Rees, witness located his uniform.

Council Workers’ Wage Increases. Enniskillen Urban Council, on Tuesday evening, adopted recommendations from the Finance and Lighting Committee that Henry Sadlier, for carting work granted an increase in remuneration of 5/- weekly, and that Frederick Walker while acting as roller-driver, be granted 3/- weekly increase. The application of Mr. Bracken, contractor for scavenging, for an increase was pending the supplying by him of further details.

SIX MEN SENTENCED TO DEATH RESULT OF BELFAST TRIAL. PRISONERS PLEAD “NO PREMEDITATION.” Six young Belfast men were sentenced to death at the Courthouse, Crumlin Rd., Belfast, on Thursday week, after a trial lasting three days. They were charged with the murder of Constable Patrick Murphy of 53, Cawnpore Street on Easter Sunday. The men who pleaded not guilty, were —Thomas J. Williams (19), house repairer, 46, Bombay Street, Belfast; Henry Cordner (19), fitter; 35, Malcolmson St.; William James Perry (21) labourer, 264, Cupar Street; John Terence Oliver (21) painter, 167 Springfield Road; Patrick Simpson (18), sheet-metal worker, 86, Cawnpore Street; and Joseph Cahill (21), joiner, 60, Divis Street.

The jury returned a verdict of guilty after an absence of 2 hours 5 minutes. The executions were fixed for Tuesday, August 18. In the case of Simpson the jury recommended mercy on account of his youth.

PRISONERS’ STATEMENTS. Asked if they had anything to say before sentence was passed, the prisoners, made the following statements CORDONER—“ I am not guilty. There was no premeditation to murder. I would like to thank my counsel, Mr. Lavery, Mr. Agnew and Mr. Marrinan for their splendid defence on my behalf.”

PERRY—“1.am not guilty of murder. There was no premeditation to murder. I also wish to thank Mr. Lavery and the other counsel for the manner in which they conducted the case.”

OLIVER—“Not guilty of murder. I had no premeditation to murder.” He also thanked his counsel.

SIMPSON—“I am not guilty of murder. I had no premeditation to murder, and I state that the operation at Kashmir Road was the only one to be performed. I also wish through the medium of the Press, on behalf of my comrades, to thank everyone who enabled us to have such a splendid defence in the case’

CAHILL—“I am not guilty of murder. There was no premeditation or intention to take life.”

WILLIAMS—“I am not guilty of murder. I am not afraid to die. There was no premeditation to murder. I want to thank my counsel for the splendid defence they put up on our behalf.’’

Before passing sentence, Lord Justice Murphy said: “I do not intend to say anything to you young men that would add to the horror of the position in which you find yourselves.”

He then passed the death sentence. The men remained standing at attention and calm during the proceedings. When warders and police were removing them from the dock to the underground passage the prisoners waved to friends in the Court. Several women sobbed and screamed. One made a rush to the dock crying “God help you, Tom.” Some of the prisoners shouted “Don’t be worrying.” Others, cried “God save Ireland.’ A number of British officers and other men in uniform were in the Court, which was heavily guarded by troops. Afterwards six women relatives were seen going across to the jail.

RECORDED SENTENCE ON GIRL. A further case arising out of the shooting of Constable P. Murphy was heard in Belfast on Friday, when a recorded sentence of one year was passed on Margaret Nolan (aged 17), 32 Bombay St., Belfast at the City Commission, when she pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact in the incident concerned.

Mr; J. Agnew, who defended, said that the police had spoken highly of the respectability of Miss Nolan’s family. He honestly thought that the girl did not realise the terrible consequence of the acts in which she had played a part, and he asked his lordship to consider that she would have a memory all her life of what happened on that Easter Sunday which would be more poignant than any punishment that could be inflicted.

Mr. J. C. McDermott said that the prisoner had been put forward on this charge because the Crown regarded the part which she had played on that Sunday as being a minor one.

Lord Justice Murphy said that he had recognised before he heard the evidence given on her behalf, that she had been led into that affair by older people.

PETITION FOR REPRIEVE SIGNED BY THOUSANDS. Forma of petition to the Six-County Governor asking for a reprieve of the six youths in Belfast Jail under sentence of death for the shooting of Constable Murphy are being extensively signed in Belfast, and arrangements are complete to secure signatures all over the Six-County area.

A representative committee of the Irish Unemployed Workers’ Association, which is taking part in the organisation of the petition, are seeking the co-operation of other sympathetic organisations, both in the Six Counties and in Great Britain, and has issued also an appeal to people in the Twenty-Six Counties to help.

Telegrams have been despatched to President Roosevelt, to the British Premier, to Mr. Herbert Morrison, British Home Secretary, and to the Clan na Gael, New York, asking them to use their influence in order to prevent the executions taking place.

Already arrangements have been; made by the reprieve organisations to have forms available in provincial centres next Sunday. Influential people on both sides of the Border, including Church leaders, and of every shade of political opinion, are to be approached to add their names to the list. Copies of the petition are to be sent to Cardinal MacRory and the Catholic Bishops, as well as the Protestant Primate and the heads of other Protestant Churches.

The Irish Unemployed Workers’ Organisation will, it is understood, ask the Belfast Trades Council to use their influence in the trade Union section of the community. At Masses in Belfast city churches the

TWO APPOINTMENTS DECIDED BY PARTY VOTES. Caretaker of Cemetery and Tenant of Cottage. DISCUSSION AT ENNISKILLEN RURAL COUNCIL. An appointment as a graveyard caretaker and the choice of a tenant for a labourer’s cottage were decided by party vote at the meeting of Enniskillen Rural Council on Tuesday, Hon. C. L. Corry (chairman) presiding. Proposing Mr. James Bartley, Cleenish Island, for appointment as caretaker of the island cemetery, Mr. James Murphy (N.) said the graveyard had been, neglected and was covered with weeds and nettles. It was a disgrace and he knew that in Mr. Bartley they would have a man who would look after the graveyard properly. Mr.W. Kelly (N.) seconded.

Mr. W. A. Thornton. (U.) proposed Mr. John Balfour, Cleenish, and Mr. J. Beatty (U.) seconded. Mr. Kelly—Should not this be advertised? Mr. Thornton — Sure it is only 30/- a year. Mr. Murphy. — The previous man got £2 a year. Mr. Beatty—It isn’t a big thing, not worth advertising. Mr. Murphy —The graveyard was neglected and we were throwing away £2 of the ratepayers’ money. Mr. Thornton—Nearly all are neglected. By 10 Unionist votes to 4 Nationalist, Balfour was appointed. Mr. E. Callaghan asked who supervised the cleaning of these graveyards. Mr. Murphy—No one at all-they get their money for doing nothing.

Mr. Callaghan said there were ricks of hay on Pobal (Pubble?) cemetery, which was a disgrace in any civilised community. Mr. Beatty- I saw it .as well as you and there was nothing wrong with it. There was only a handshaking of hay on it. Mr. Murphy- But it is hay, Mr. Beatty. Mr. Beatty—He told me he would take it away next day. The Clerk (Mr. J. Brown) said he would write to caretakers saying they must clean up the graveyards at once.

This was agreed to. Mr. Callaghan — A graveyard is no place for winning hay. Mr. Cathcart – Isn’t the hay won on any graveyard.

CINEMA PRICES-NO INCREASE. ENNISKILLEN URBAN COUNCIL DECISION. In the absence through indisposition of Mr. W. J. Monaghan, the following motion standing in his name, was proposed by Mr. T. Smyth at the meeting of Enniskillen Urban Council on Tuesday evening. “That the absolution of 1st June, 1942, refusing consent to the Regal Cinema Co. to raise the price of admission to balcony seats on Sundays by one penny to meet increased taxation be rescinded and that the application of the Company be granted.”

Mr. C. Patterson seconded Mr. T. Algeo moved the rejection of the motion, stating that if the cinema shows on Sunday the proprietors had the remedy in their own hands. The cinema, he said, should never have been allowed to open the cinemas on Sunday during the summer and he would propose later on that this be not allowed.

Mr. P. Kelly seconding, said he was opposed to the motion on the ground that he thought that there should not be particular seats for officers in the rear while the private soldier was as well entitled to sit in the balcony as anyone else. He thought the Regal Cinema should write to the Taxation Authorities on the matter instead of the Council.

Mr. W. E. Johnston (chairman), said he did not think there was any particular place in the Regal Cinema for officers. Mr. Kelly asserted that the balcony was being reserved for people with an inferiority complex. The Chairman replied that any soldier could go to whatever part of the cinema he liked. Mr. W. H. Creighton supporting Mr. Algeo’s amendment, said that when the Regal was granted permission, to open on Sundays the Council was informed the opening was purely to provide entertainment for the troops and that they did not want to make money out of it. He knew the proprietors were not running the shows at a loss. “If they were patriotic enough,’’ he added, ‘‘they would let them have the entertainment free, but instead of this they are trying to  make money out of it on Sundays.”

Mr. J. Logan said in wartime all businessmen had to contend with extra Expenses, such as extra wages. He understood that not one hundred officers would be frequenting this cinema so that the total amount involved would be 8/4. It was a very poor war effort. They should not charge anything on Sunday if it was for the benefit of the troops. He was afraid it was for  their own benefit. Mr. Patterson said he was given an explanation for. the suggested change—the  scarcity of coppers. Instead of the 8d seat as at present the 9d seat would exclude the use of coppers in payment, 6d and 3d pieces.

Mr. Algeo — They have their own remedy to close down. Mr. Creighton – That is right. The voting resulted- For the motion- Messrs. Fitzsimmons, Patterson, Smyth and the Chairman—4. Against—Messrs. Lee, Elliott, Logan, Creighton, Algeo, Kelly, Fox and McKeown—8. Mr. Weir did not vote. The Chairman declared the motion lost.

WIFE’S MAINTENANCE CLAIM AT BROOKEBORO’ HUSBAND SUED. Mrs. Mary Little, of Coolnakeklly, sued her husband, George Little, farm labourer, of Latnafree for maintenance, at Brookeboro’ Petty Sessions on Tuesday, before Major Dickie, R.M. Mr. Ferguson, M.P., solicitor, was for the wife, and Mr. Patterson for the husband.

Mrs. Little, who said she and her husband were over 30 years married, gave evidence of her husband having left her for no reason whatever that she knew of last May, and had not since returned. She lived with her grown up son and daughter, aged 16 and 13½ years. Defendant took his ration book with him and he paid nothing towards the upkeep of the family. All she had to live on with the family was 10/- a week brought in by her son. Answering Mr. Patterson, witness said her husband left her 18 years ago and again two years ago, but he came back afterwards. He was in the habit of walking away and leaving her for what reason she did not know. Defendant at present lived with his mother, and last March she and her family raised £15 to pay a fine imposed on him at Irvinestown Petty Sessions for the larceny of tools. James Little, a son, gave evidence of his parents not having got on well together for years back.

For the defence the husband alleged unfaithfulness on the part of his wife for 18 years back and said it was time for him to leave the house when the door was closed against him and his clothes thrown out on the street. He was earning 33/6 a week with board as a farm labourer. His Worship said it was perfectly clear a case of desertion was established and the defendant was entitled to maintain his wife and family. The question was one of the amount of contribution and he (his worship) thought a weekly allowance of 17/6 would be reasonable and he would make an order to that effect. Mr. Ferguson agreed the amount was reasonable as they did not want to take all defendant’s money from him. Defendant was ordered to pay in addition 28/- costs.

8-8-1942. MINISTRY WANTS IRON-ENNISKILLEN HAS IT. The Ministry wrote to Enniskillen Urban Council on Tuesday evening that it was requisitioning all available iron and steel railings in the Six Counties for the war effort, and it asked for the co-operation of local authorities. M. T. Algeo — There is 50 tons of cast iron railing lying outside the town for the last three years: why don’t they commandeer it? Chairman, (Mr. W. E. Johnston)—Mr. Donnelly (the surveyor) will assist the Ministry as far as possible. Mr. Donnelly said Mr. Ritchie and himself pointed out the iron, referred to by Mr. Algeo twelve months ago, and it was still there. Chairman—They will come now to take more stuff and may take it.

8-8-1942. Smuggling Charges—Terence McKeown, High St., Monaghan, was .fined £10 at  Aughnacloy for smuggling two cycle tyres, six cycle repair outfits, and three cycle wheel catches on July 20 at Mullaghtinney. Patrick McGlone, Belgium. Park, Monaghan, who was with the last defendant and who was charged with smuggling the same number of articles, did not appear. Both defendants had been out on hail, sureties being fixed at £10 each. The recognances in the case of McGlone were certified by Mr. J. O. H. Long, R.M., with a view to proceedings against the surety.

Clones Man Killed in Air Raid.—Mrs. J. McDonald, Roslea Tec., Clones, has been  informed that her husband, Mr. John McDonald, was killed in an air raid on Birmingham last week. He had been working there for the past year. He leaves a widow and two young children.

8-8-1942. R.A.F. MAN DROWNED. Aircraftsman A. Ernest Taylor, R.A.F., Killadeas, a native of Stoke-on-Trent, was drowned while bathing in Lough Erne during the week-end. At an inquest on Saturday, held by Mr. G. E. Warren, Coroner a verdict of accidental drowning was returned. It was stated that, with a companion, Tyler, went to bathe at Killadeas and the companion asked him could he swim. He said he could swim a little. The companion entered the water first and had only gone a short distance when he looked back and saw Tyler in difficulties. He went to help him, but Tyler caught him by the neck and was pulling him down, so that he had to let him go. He went out and shouted for help, which arrived, but Tyler had disappeared and could not be found. It was two and a half hours later when the body was recovered from a fifteen feet hole.

8-8-1942. CHURCHILL WILL NOT INTERVENE. CONDEMNED BELFAST YOUTHS REPRIEVE PETITION EXTENSIVELY SIGNED. Mr. Winston Churchill, British Premier, through his secretary, has replied to the recent telegram sent from, a conference of Nationalist Senators and Members of the Six-Co., Parliament in connection with the petition for the reprieve of the six young men under sentence of death in Belfast prison to the effect that “it is not a matter in which it is possible for him to intervene.” APPEAL. No date has yet been fixed for the hearing by the Court of Criminal Appeal of the appeal of the six young men. It is unlikely that it will come before the Court early next week.

THE PETITION. Satisfactory reports of the signing of the reprieve petition have been received at the Reprieve Committee’s headquarters in Belfast by Mr. Eamon Donnelly, Approximately 200,000 have signed the petition up to date and the campaign is still in progress. Thousands of signatures are being received daily at the Reprieve Committee’s office. The Duke of Abercorn, acknowledging the telegraphic, appeal, by the Lord Mayor of Cork (Ald. J. Allen) on behalf of the six men states, (through his private secretary, Mrs. S. Lewis Haslett) that it will have his careful consideration.

THE CONDEMNED YOUTHS. The six young men are attending Mass and receiving Holy Communion, each morning in a cell specially furnished for the purpose. They are visited daily by Rev. P. McAllister, Catholic chaplain to the prison Father Oliver, C P., and Father Alexis C.P., of Holy Cross Monastery, Ardoyne.

8-8-1942. Bundoran is having a record year. For the past month the resort has been crowded fully to capacity and hundreds failed to travel because of information that accommodation was not available. Nearly all visitors are from the Six Counties and County Fermanagh, especially Enniskillen, supplied a large proportion of cross-border holiday makers. The August weekend was the most crowded Bundoran has had in many years. Enniskillen sent hundreds of the visitors by train and bus while at least a dozen made the journey (32 miles) by bicycle.

1942. They were ‘Peeps’ before they became Jeeps.

4-7-1942. U.S. SERGEANT KILLED. Sergeant Robert D. Gibson, of the U.S. Army, a native of Knoxville, Iowa, was killed on Sunday afternoon when a “peep’ in which he was travelling was in collision with a U.S. Army truck. Deceased, who aged thirty eight years, was married. (Ed. Originally, many soldiers did not call it a jeep at all. Jack Keenan, a World War II Third Armoured Division veteran, wrote that early Willys-Overlands were not called Jeeps. “We called ’em ‘Peeps.’” His contemporary sketches of the vehicles in Louisiana and desert manoeuvres were clearly labelled “Peeps.” )

At the inquest, Private Robert D. Goey gave evidence that he had been walking with some companions, and the ‘‘peep” in which deceased was riding, passed them about 20 yards before the accident. The deceased was sitting on the right-hand side in the front seatt. Immediately the “peep’ passed him witness saw a large truck approaching. He saw the two vehicles hit and at that time the “peep’’ was well on its’ own side and the truck was over on its wrong side by about four feet. After the ‘‘peep” was hit it swerved to its left and then back to the middle of the road, where the deceased was thrown out as the “peep” swerved back again to the left.

When the “peep” ‘ was meeting the truck the deceased had his head out to the right over the side of the “peep’’ speaking to witness and his companions, and witness saw the head thrown back and he believed, hit by the radiator grill of the track. If the deceased had not his head out witness did not believe he would have been hit. On the same side that the “peep” was travelling there were some girls at a gate and he saw the driver of the truck looking at them immediately before the accident. In witness’s opinion both vehicles were travelling between 25 and 30 m.p.h.

Private Fred T. Ruggien, who was travelling with deceased in the “peep,” said he was sitting in the back seat on the right side and the deceased was sitting immediately in front of him.  They were travelling close to the grass verge on the left hand side and the truck was travelling about the centre of the road. The two vehicles hit about three or four feet from the left side of the road. Immediately after the collision witness saw blood spouting from a hole beneath deceased’s left temple and he lurched over towards the driver. The “peep” then swerved over again to the right, and as it swerved back to the left deceased was thrown back. The driver of the truck pulled in to his right and stopped about 50-60 yards from the point of impact.

Corporal Merl B. Averill said he was in charge of the truck which was being driven by Pte. John H. McLaughlin. About 100 yards ahead he saw a “peep’’ travelling in the same direction. Witness was sitting in the cab beside the driver and had his head, turned to the right, watching some children on the roadside.

So far as he could judge the truck was travelling on the left centre of the road. He did not see the “peep” coming towards them until he looked out after hearing the crash. The driver of the truck was perfectly sober.

Captain Garrold Hungester, a medical officer of the U.S. Army, said that deceased was dead when he arrived at the scene of the accident. In his opinion the cause of death was multiple compound fracture of the skull with cerebral haemorrhage. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

FIXTURES FOR SUNDAY, 5th JULY. Senior Football League.

Lisnaskea v. Newtownbutler — S. O’Grady, Ballyconnell.

Teemore v. Kinawley —  P. Maguire, Derrylin, 5 p.m. (E.S.T.).

O’Connells v. Harps — P. Maguire, Derrylin, 7 p.m. (E.S.T.).

Junior League.

Irvinestown v. Ederney—Father Kirke, C.C., Trillick.

Enniskillen v. Tempo—P. Corrigan, Belnaleck, 4 p.m. (E.S.T.).

Aghadrumsee v. Roslea—H. Fitzpatrick, Newtownbutler.

All matches on grounds of first-named clubs, and at 5 p.m. (extended summer time) except otherwise stated.

LEAGUE TABLES.

Senior Football League.

  1.       W.       L.         D.        Pts.

Lisnaskea … …            6          6          0          0          12

Newtownbutler. 4       4          0          0          8

Kinawley         6          2          4          0          4

Harps .   5        1          4          0          2

O’Connells …. 3          1          2 .        0          2

Teemore … .    6          1          5          0          2

JUNIOR         LEAGUE.

Northern Division.

  1. W.       L.         D.        Pts.

Derrygonnelly . 6        6          0          0          12

Mulleek … … … 6        5          1          0          10

Devenish … … , 4        1          3          0          2

Cashel … …     4          0          4          0          0

Drumavanty    . 4        0          4          0          0

 

Central Division.

  1. w.        L.         D.        Pts.

Enniskillen 5   4          1          0          8

Edemey ..        4          3          1          0          6

Tempo ..  4      1          3          0          2

Irvinestown  5 1          4          0          2

 

Southern Division.

  1. w.        L.         D.        Pts.

Roslea …          2         2          0          0          4

Aghadrumsee … 3 1 2 0 2

Killyvannon … 3 12 0 2

4-7-1942. FERMANAGH MOUNTAIN FIRE CLAIM AT QUARTER SESSIONS. A Fermanagh mountain fire which it was alleged raged over an area 395 acres in extent had a sequel at Enniskillen Quarter Sessions on Tuesday, before Deputy Judge Ellison, K.C., when an application for malicious damage was heard. The applicants were Elisabeth. M. J. Beacom, Tullyvocady; Jas. Stewart, Derrin; Cap., J. G. Barton, The Waterfoot; Geo. Lowry, Portnablaghey; Wm. Lowry, do., and Rebecca Mills, Tullyvocady, and they claimed £500 alleging that some person or persons maliciously set fire to 395 acres of meadow and grazing land, 5 acres of crop land and crops, together with game cover and eggs, fences, trees, shrubs and seeds. All the lands are situate in the Pettigo-Belleek area in the parishes of Muckross and Templecarne.

Mr. E. C. Ferguson, LL B., M.P., represented applicants, and Mr. James Cooper, D.L., solicitor was for the Fermanagh County Council, defendants. Richard Crozier, surveyor, gave evidence that a total of 316 acres were completely burnt in what he described as “a good burning.” A week after the fires were first reported’ he visited the area and had to walk through red hot ashes. Freshly cut turf were singed. The greater part of the land affected was arable mountain grazing.

In reply to Mr. Cooper, witness said that at the time of the fire the cover was in a most inflammable condition. James Stewart, farmer and gamekeeper for Mr. Barton, gave evidence of seeing the three fires at 1 o’clock, a.m., on 4th May, half a mile and a quarter of a mile apart. Attempts by relatives and himself to extinguish the flames were of no avail. All the ditches on his land were levelled and he had his cattle tied in since. He had lost £50 by the fire on his grazing land, which was full of grouse.

Cross-examined, witness said he lived a mile off the road and few people went up his mountain. All the applicants were very popular in the locality. George Beacom, husband of .one of the applicants, Mrs. Beacom, stated he saw the three separate fires about 4 p.m. One of the fires was about two hundred yards from his house and another a quarter of a mile away. The latter never joined with the two which converged towards his house. Twenty acres of his wife’s holding were burned including, fences, an acre of potatoes damaged, and four acres of arable land. He did his best to put the fires out.

Cross-examined, witness agreed nobody could have any possible interest in burning the mountain. Nobody had anything against the applicants.          .

Wm. Lowry said that after eleven o’clock on 4th May he saw a fire spread over a considerable area a mile or a mile and a half away. Ten acres of grazing land on his farm, worth £30, were burned, also four or five hundred acres of mountain grazing, of which he had a grazing right. A rood of early potatoes, value £5, were burnt, in addition to a ridge of cabbage plants worth £2.

Captain John Barton said he had exercised his shooting rights over the townland in question. For the defence, Sergeant Kerr, R.U.C. gave evidence of investigating the fire and said he could find no trace of malice. Similar fires occurred in other parts of the district. All the applicants were popular in the locality. His Honour refused the application and allowed McCrea 5s witness’s expenses.

NOTED. 11-7-1942. £14 Sought for Heifer.—Notice of intention to apply to the County Court for £14 compensation for the loss of a heifer, which he alleged was maliciously killed on Pushin Island, was received by Enniskillen Rural Council on Tuesday on behalf of Wm. Lunny.

R.M.’s Advice.—When John McClean, Rafinton, an ex-policeman, and Wesley Johnston, Ramult, appeared at Brookeboro’ Court in cases of threatening language, Major Dickie, on the advice of the solicitors on both sides, advised the parties to go home and leave each other alone in future.

Cycle Thief Gets Six Months—Described by Sergt. McQuaid as “a criminal and dangerous liar,” Edward Keenan, no fixed abode, was, at Virginia (County Cavan) sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for having stolen a bicycle. It was stated he made a statement involving an innocent man.

Rainfall at Heath Lodge, Belleek.—The rainfall for June amounts to only 1.09 inches, being the lowest for that month for the past eighteen years. Rain fell on twelve days, on ten of which it amounted to .04 inches or over. The drought which prevailed since early February caused an exceptionally low rainfall for the first half of this year, namely 18.78 inches, which is approximately one-third of the annual average rainfall for the past twenty years.

Tractor Offences. —Samuel Ernest Dane, of Mullaghmeen, Ballinamallard, was fined 5/- and costs at Enniskillen Petty Sessions for driving a motor tractor with trailer attached, without having an identification mark on the rear of the trailer. Philip Diver, Drumcullion, Ballinamallard, was fined 5/- and costs for not having an identification mark on the front of a tractor and rear of a trailer.

Pulled out without signalling.—When Ernest Elliott, of Drumconlin. East, Letterbreen, was charged at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday with having driven a motor car without due care and attention on 4th June last, Sergeant McNally gave evidence that defendant pulled out from the kerb in Darling St., Enniskillen, without giving a hand-signal, and a lorry coming behind had to brake violently in order to avoid a collision. A fine of 10/- and costs was imposed.

Increase for Town Surveyor—At Enniskillen U.D.C. on Monday, the Finance Committee recommended that in view of the part that Mr. J. Donnelly, Borough Surveyor, pays all his clerical and incidental office expenses out of his own pocket, he be granted a war bonus of £50 as from 1st inst. Further, subject to sanction, that he be granted an honorarium of £25 in respect of his extra services during the recent protracted illness of the Town Clerk. The recommendation was passed unanimously.

SUNDAY CINEMA CHARGES. Notice of a resolution, which will permit the Regal Cinema to increase the charge for the balcony seats on Sunday, from 8d to 9d to meet the increased tax, was given at Enniskillen U.C. on Monday by Mr. W. Monaghan. The Sunday cinema is confined to soldiers, and the proposed increased charge would not affect the ordinary soldier using the body of the

Fermanagh Junior Football 1942.

FERMANAGH JUNIOR LEAGUE. MULLEEK’S WIN OVER CASHEL. Mulleek 6-2. Cashel 0-3. There was a good attendance at Cashel Gaelic Park on Sunday, when Cashel and Mulleek teams met in the Junior League competition. Mulleek started with a slight breeze in their favour. From the throw-in they broke away bombarding the Cashel goals, but Leonard  (the goalie) did some splendid saving. For the first ten minutes Cashel defence held good. A determined rush by Mulleek forwards resulted in a goal per H. McGauran. Despite some fine Cashel clearances, Mulleek had another major per H. McGauran. Inside of a few minutes Pat McGauran again raised the red flag for the visitors. At this stage play waxed very rough, and one of the Cashel, players had to retire owing to severe head injuries. Fisticuffs were indulged in and it was only by exercising great tact that the referee settled the fracas. In the last five minutes of this moiety Mulleek added two goals per H. McGauran and P. McCaffrey and 2 points per P. McCaffrey arid Sean McCaffrey. Half-time score Mulleek, 5 goals 2 pts.; Cashel, nil. No sooner had the game resumed than Cashel went to the attack but the Mulleek defence was impregnable. Play veered from one side to the other, and several Mulleek shots went wide. A determined Cashel rush resulted in 3 points scored in quick succession by Frank Gallagher, Alfie McGovern and P. McGee. Frayed tempers resulted in further incidents. Mulleek had the last score of the match— a goal per Sean McCaffery. Cashel had much, lighter team than Mulleek, who also showed superior training in catching and combination. Mr, J. Daly, Belleek, refereed.

DEVENISH V. DRUMAVANTY. Before a large attendance of spectators the above teams met at Drumavanty on, Sunday. The game which was one of the closest and best contests ever witnessed at Drumavanty was an exhibition of good football of high standard played in a sporting manner and spectators were kept at a pitch of excitement with not a dull, moment from the throw-in to the final whistle. The final scores were:—Drumavanty, 0 goals 6 points; Devenish, 1 goal 2 pts. Rev. Brother Gilleece, Ballyshannon, was a very efficient referee.

As a prelude to the junior game a minor match was played between Ballyshannon and Devenish, which proved very interesting. In this game Ballyshannon, who were faster and better trained than their rivals, emerged victorious by the score of 3 goals 2 points for Ballyshannon; 1 goal 3 points for Devenish. Rev. J. Burns, C.C., refereed.

1942 June.

£550 SOUGHT FOR MOUNTAIN BURNING. Enniskillen Rural Council on Tuesday, referred to its solicitor a preliminary notice of application for compensation on behalf of the Earl of Enniskillen for £550 for the burning of 1,500 acres of mountain lands with the heather, grass, game and game cover on the lands of Aghatirourke.

CARETAKER’S APPLICATION. Application for an increase in salary was made by Mr. James H. Kerr, cemetery caretaker, to the Enniskillen Rural District Council on Tuesday, Hon. C. L. Corry, J.P., presiding. Mr. Kerr said he had been nineteen years in the Council’s service and had only received one small increase in salary, six years ago. He had not taken any holidays since his appointment. The Clerk (Mr. J. Brown) said Mr. Kerr’s salary was £63 a year (inclusive of £13 bonus) with free house, coal and light, and 3/- for each grave. The Ministry would not, in his (the clerk’s) opinion grant an increase of salary in accordance with wartime regulations. It was decided to consider the application at the next meeting in July.

20-6-1942. SCOTSTOWN POTEEN CHARGE. At Monaghan District Court., before Mr. P. Lavery, D.J. at the suit of Supt. Ryan, Bernard McElmeel, Glan, Scotstown, was fined £6 for having a half-pint of illicit spirits, in his possession, Guard Hegarty stating that defendant, who was without a light on a bicycle, accelerated his speed when he met witness, who subsequently found a bottle containing poteen on the road. Defendant denied it was his. Mr. McWilliams, solr., for McElmeel, admitted ownership, and said his client lived with his father, aged 74 and there was no one else to look after the crop.

20-6-1942. £5 10s WEEKLY FOR MAN, HORSE, CART. COUNCIL OBJECTIONS. Horses and carts are almost unobtainable for daily hire in the Enniskillen district, being regularly employed on constant work, Mr, J. Donnelly, Surveyor, had reported to the Town improvement Committee: “Owing to the almost continuous employment of the Council’s lorry on the collection of waste paper and scrap iron, he found it necessary to hire a horse with cart and harness for street maintenance and other works. The horse, cart and harness was supplied by Mr. H. Sadlier, carting contractor to the Council. The driver was supplied by the Council.”

The committee recommended that Mr. Sadlier be paid a rate of 10/- per day. Mr. T. Algeo, after the reading of the foregoing report asked what was the rate of pay of the man regularly employed with, horse and cart by the Council. Mr. Donnelly said £3 10s weekly. Mr. Algeo said this thing should have been advertised, and they would have got a lot of people to do it more cheaply. One man was getting £3 10s for himself, his horse and cart; while for another they were, paying £5 10s for the horse and cart and man. Mr. Donnelly said the rate was fixed by the committee. The work had been increasing to such an extent that the lorry could no longer do it. Previously he had employed Francis Cleary at 15/- daily, but he had refused to do it this time at less than 25/- daily, at which, rate he said he was, paid elsewhere. He (Mr. Donnelly) tried everywhere to get another horse and cart, but could not do so. Mr Sadlier bought, a horse to provide it with a cart for the Council. The rate was 19/- weekly approximately. Mr. G. Elliott said there was no hope of getting it done cheaper. The matter was approved, Mr, Algeo dissenting.

20-6-1942. CAVAN FARMERS HIT BY SHORTAGE OF LABOUR. The shortage of labour on Cavan farms was referred to by members at a meeting of Cavan Agricultural Committee. Mr. Dolan said that farmers worked 16 hours a day tilling the land and they could not get the crop in. The secretary thought it would be doubly difficult getting it out. Mr. Taite — A lot of young people are going away to better themselves and it is hard to blame them. Senator Baxter said the number of men on the land was not sufficient to save the harvest. It was suggested that shopkeepers in towns should close for a few days weekly and allow off the assistants—-mostly farmers’ sons—to help on the land.

The secretary said voluntary organisation of some kind was needed. Senator Baxter suggested that if the urban dwellers realised the. grave risk to the, harvest they would willingly cooperate. At a meeting of Co. Monaghan Agricultural Committee reference was made to the glut of potatoes. Mr. McGahey said anything would be better than to see the potatoes rotting in the pits. Mr. Pollock said with the present glut it might be possible under a trade pact with Britain to exchange the potatoes for coal. Mr. McEntee said a stone of oatmeal could not be got in Monaghan.

20-6-1942. RHUBARB WANTED. ANY QUANTITY. HIGHEST PRICES PAID —AT- GRACEY’S The BROOK, ENNISKILLEN.

20-6-1942. ACCIDENT TO ENNISKILLEN STEAM ROLLER. The steam roller of Enniskillen Urban Council, while working (on hire) at an avenue in Lord Enniskillen’s demesne, Florencecourt, sunk on the side of the avenue and partly overturned. It took three, days’ efforts to get it out again. The roller was thus out of commission from 26th May till 2nd June. It had been on hire for three weeks at the time of the accident. Since then a number of badly worn tubes had to be replaced, Mr. Donnelly, Surveyor, told Enniskillen U.D.C.

20-6-1942. YOUNGSTERS BEGGING FROM U.S. TROOPS. REFERENCE AT URBAN COUNCIL. Mr. W. E. Johnston drew attention to the conduct of youngsters in Enniskillen begging from American soldiers. “It is an absolute disgrace the way the children are running, after these soldiers, stopping them, and begging at every corner,” he said. These soldiers were very kind, and when they came gave money to these kiddies, and now the soldiers were being absolutely annoyed. . Something should be done. This habit was not confined to Enniskillen, for he read of it happening elsewhere—in Belfast, Bangor, etc. It was not good to see this going on. It did not show Enniskillen up very well. It was decided to draw the attention of the police to the matter.

13-6-1942. NEW CAVAN CATHEDRAL FORMALLY OPENED BY BISHOP OF KILMORE. HIS LORDSHIP RECALLS THE DAYS OF PERSECUTION. The new Cathedral in Cavan was, on Sunday, formally opened for public worship by Most Rev. Dr. Lyons, Bishop of Kilmore. Three hundred years ago, Bishop Hugh O’Reilly, of Kilmore, suffered insult and. imprisonment for his faith. It was he who originated the Catholic Confederacy and fought against bitterness, treachery, and the persecution of his flock. It was fitting that his successor should use his chalice in the celebration of the first public Mass in the new edifice. “A symbol of victory” was the description applied by Most Rev. Dr. Lyons to his beautiful Cathedral, when, he addressed the vast congregation at the opening ceremony.

The building of a cathedral at any time” he said, “is proof of a vigorous religious life in a diocese. This Cathedral is much more it is the sign of our religious resurgence. “It links us across three centuries with the days of the great Hugh O’Reilly, Bishop of Kilmore, whose Chalice, well over 300 years old, is in use in the holy Mass to-day.’ “This Cathedral of Saints Patrick and Felim is an eloquent and noble act of thanksgiving to the Omnipotent God, who, over centuries has with, the outstretched arm of His Providence preserved our people in their ancient faith.”

BUILDING OF CATHEDRAL. Under the untiring zeal and efforts of Most Rev. Dr. Lyons, the splendid Cathedral has been almost completed in three years. The building fund was inaugurated in 1919 by the late Most Rev. Dr. Finnegan., and the foundation stone was laid in September, 1939. Next September the dedication ceremony will take place, marking the completion of the work. The Cathedral stands beside the old one, which will be taken down, stone by stone, to be re-erected in Ballyhaise, thus preserving a link with the glorious past of this historic diocese.

20-6-1942. JOTTINGS. Warships Collection.—Total to date in Fermanagh is £310,620, of which Enniskillen contributed £106,153, Irvinestown £46,534, and Lisnaskea £43,757.

Prisoner of War—included in the latest list of British prisoners of war in Italian hands is Pte. James Steward Bercin, Letter P.O. Fermanagh.

Monaghan postmaster for Mullingar—Mr. John Cassin, postmaster, Monaghan, has been transferred on promotion to be postmaster of Mullingar.

Monea Man’s Death—Word has been received that Pte. Edward Scott, son of Mr. Robert Scott, Means, Monea, County Fermanagh, has died in a prisoner of war camp in Italy.

W.V.S. Savings Effort. — W.V.S. Savings Groups for Fermanagh Warship Week provided the following totals: Enniskillen, £2,892 2s 8d; Enniskillen Rural, £7.753 14s Id; Lisnaskea Rural, £8,250 4s 6d.

A. F. Man missing—Flight-Sergeant Ronnie West, son of Mr. and Mrs. John West, Trory, Ballinamallard, Co. Fermanagh, has been reported missing following one of the bomber raids on Germany.

Kilskeery Aeridheacht.—The winner of the. solo singing (Anglo-Irish, under 14) at Kilskeery aeridheacht recently was Miss Nuala Drumm, Convent of Mercy, Enniskillen, not Nuala Quinn, as already stated.

Food and Drugs officers—Fermanagh County Council on Friday appointed Sergeant William O’Donnell, Belcoo, to be Food and Drugs Inspector for the Letterbreen Petty Sessions district, and Sergeant J. D. Cochrane for the Belleek Petty Sessions district.

Sympathy-Fermanagh Co., Council on Friday, on the proposal of Hon. C. L. Corry, J.P., seconded by Mr. J. W. Creighton, J.P., passed a resolution of sympathy with Mr. H. A. Burke, LL.B., Under-Sheriff, on the death of his father, Mr. H. A. Burke, D.L.

Fermanagh County council Officers—Sir Basil Brooke, M.P., was on Friday re-elected chairman of Fermanagh County Council, at the annual meeting pf that body. The re-election of the chairman was passed unanimously on the motion of Mr. A. Wilson, seconded by Mr. T. M. Noble. Hon. Cecil Lowry-Corry, J.P., was unanimously re-elected vice-chairman on the motion of Mr. G. Elliott, seconded by Mr. J. W. Creighton, J.P.

Rat Instead of Fish. While fishing for pike in the River Finn, near Rosslea, Mr. Joseph Montgomery, principal teacher, Rosslea P.E. School, had a remarkable experience. Mr. Montgomery was using a minnow and having felt a tug on his line, he proceeded to haul it in. To his amazement he landed, not a fish, but a large rat which was firmly hooked on the minnow.

20-6-1942. SONS OF ENNISKILLEN MAN GET DISTINCTIONS IN BRITISH COLONIAL SERVICE. Six sons, all of whom occupy or have retired from positions in the Colonial service—this is the record of the family of Mr. C. Bartley, retired inspector of schools. Fairview, Enniskillen, a native of County Monaghan whose eldest son, Charles, has just retired from a Judgeship of the High Court, Calcutta, and has been awarded a Knighthood. Sir Charles Bartley’s eldest son, recently awarded the. D.F.C. is now a squadron leader in the R.A.F.

Mr. Bartley’s other five sons are William, recently retired from the Colonial Civil Service, and who has just been awarded Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George (C.M.G.) and Member of the Order of the British. Empire (M.B.E.). John, who is additional Secretary to the Government of India and who has been awarded Companion of the Order of the Star of India (C.S.I.) and Companion of the Order of the Indian Empire (C.I.E.); Frederick, who has retired from the Indian Police, and who was awarded Commander of the Order of the British. Empire (C.B.E.) and also the King’s Police Medal with Bar; Douglas, who is Judge of the Supreme Court in Kenya and Gwyther, who is Deputy Inspector General of the police force in Assam, and who has been awarded the King’s Police Medal. Sir Charles and Jack are scholars of Trinity College both being senior moderators in classics and modern literature.

20-6-1942. ENNISKILLEN WOMAN FINED. Unlawful possession of army property was alleged against Mrs. Sidney Thompson, 5, Mary St., Enniskillen, who, at the local Petty Sessions on Monday, was charged with haying ten blankets, two paillasses and one pillow-slip, the property of the Army Council.

D.I. Peacocke prosecuted, and said defendant was the wife of a serving soldier. He alleged, she made a statement saving that eight of the blankets were the property of her husband’s grandmother, and the other two she bought in Brookeboro’. She added that her husband brought the other articles to the house. Head Constable Thornton gave evidence of searching defendant’s house and finding the property.. She made the statement read by the D.I. Sergeant Bailey, of the Special Investigation Branch of the Corps of Military Police, testified to accompanying the last witness when the search was made. All the blankets (produced) were W.D. property, and he was satisfied four of them were manufactured certainly not before 1940. One of the others might have been rejected by the Army. Ink stains on it made it appear as if it had been used on an office table and it was quite possible defendant’s husband might have come by it lawfully.

Miss A, Barrett, shopkeeper, Brookeborough, who had sold discarded Army blankets in her shop, did not think any of the blankets shown her had ever passed through her shop, and she did not recollect ever selling the defendant any. Asked by Major Dickie, P.M., if she wished to give evidence, defendant replied in the negative. His Worship said he must hold the charge proved. He observed that if the blankets had been new he would have taken a serious view of the case. He fined defendant 40/- and 6/8 costs, ordering that the property be returned to the military authorities.

20-6-1942. FOUR MONTHS JAIL SENTENCE ON NEWTOWNBUTLER MAN. Second Fined £50. R.M.—”DELIBERATE SMUGGLING” “I am tired giving those warnings and nobody seems to bother about them,” declared Major; Dickie, R.M., when recalling that, at previous Courts he had announced that stiff terms of imprisonment were in store for those caught smuggling. He was speaking at Newtownbutler Petty Sessions, on Tuesday, when Philip Swift of Lisnashillinda, was summoned for being knowingly concerned in removing 12 stone of flour and 14 cwt. sulphate of ammonia with intent to evade the prohibition of export. James Johnston, Kiltober was summonsed for being knowingly concerned in harbouring 14 cwts. sulphate of ammonia, 1 cwt 2 qrs. flour, 1 qr. custard powder, 14 lbs. pepper, 48 parcels of Bisto and 4 lbs. toilet soap, with intent to evade the prohibition. Mr. J. P. Black, solr., tendered a plea of guilty on behalf of Swift.

In the ease against Johnston, Sergeant Green said that on Sunday, 3th February he saw Swift outside a cafe in Newtownbutler. Later three military trucks drew up and Swift followed the soldiers inside. Later Swift left the town on his bicycle and one of the trucks followed him. The police followed both and discovered the truck at Johnston’s house, just on the border. They also saw Swift running away. In the byre they found the sulphate of ammonia and flour and the other articles (listed in the summons), in the dwelling house. They also seized four gross of clothes pegs for which Johnston was separately summonsed. Johnston told witness he got the pegs in Cavan.

Cross-examined by Mr. J. B. Murphy, witness said he was satisfied Johnston was not present when the stuff was delivered and it had been removed by the police before he reached home again. Constable Duffy also gave evidence. Robert Clarke, a serving soldier, grave evidence that Swift requested him, as a favour to deliver some sacks and witness agreed. They left the bags at a farm on the Clones road; seven bags of sulphate of ammonia and two bags of flour. Johnston, in evidence, said he had been away after Mass on Sunday morning till 3 a.m. on Monday, seeing an uncle at Smithboro’ and knew nothing about the transaction till he was informed by the servant girl. Cross-examined by Mr. J. Cooper, Crown Solicitor, defendant admitted Swift had spoken to him on the previous Friday about the proposed smuggling, but he Johnston, declined to have anything to do with it.

Mr, Murphy submitted that there was no evidence to show Johnston knew anything about the smuggling on that particular date. His Worship said defendant lived on the border and all the commodities in question had been found in this premises and yet Mr. Murphy was suggesting, there was no evidence against him. Anybody with intelligence should see that he was bringing the stuff to Johnston’s house had no sympathy with him. Mr. Black said his client admitted bringing the stuff to Johnston’s house but that Johnston did not know anything about it. His Worship said he had often stated

27-6-1942. CYCLIST’S FATAL INJURIES. KILLADEAS WOMANS FATE. Miss Catherine Breen, Drogan, Killadeas (73), single, who was seriously injured when as she was cycling near Riversdale, Ballinamallard, she was in collision with a private motor car, died in Fermanagh County Hospital on Monday evening. At an inquest in Fermanagh County Hospital an Tuesday, by Coroner George Warren and a jury, a verdict was returned of accidental death, no blame being attached to the driver. The driver, Ernest Stewart, cinema manager Lisnarick Rd., Irvinestown, driver of the car, stated he was driving from Enniskillen to Irvinestown, about 4 p.m. on Sunday at 30 mph. As he approached Riversdale Avenue he blew his horn. The cyclist came out of the Avenue straight in front of the car. He swerved to the right to avoid her but she went in front of the car and the left front headlamp hit her. He did everything in his power to avoid the collision.

Charles G. Thompson, V.S., Strabane, who was sitting beside the driver of the car, Thomas Aiken, Irvinestown, and Henry Crowhurst, Henry St., Enniskillen who were in the back of the car, gave similar evidence, stating the cyclist came out so quickly she could not be avoided. Evidence of identification was given by W. J. Breen, deceased’s brother, and Constable Bothwell produced a sketch, of the road and gave measurements.

27-6-1942. MARRIED TEACHERS NOT TO RESIGN. Fermanagh Education Committee heard from the Secretary (Mr, J. J. Maguire) that the junior assistant mistress appointed to Clonelly School at the last meeting had not taken the position. He wondered if the Committee would rescind the resolution on the books providing that a female teacher must resign three months after marriage. It was very difficult to get teachers. Capt. Wray —I see they are doing that in England. Secretary — It is an emergency provision for the duration of the war only. Dean MacManaway intimated he would hand in notice to have the resolution rescinded.

27-6-1942. YOUNG AMERICAN STUDENT’S SUCCESS. GRANDSON OF ENNISKILLEN MAN. The New York papers recently carried the news of the success of Mr. Joseph J. Martin in the annual elocution contest among students, of Fordham Preparatory School, high school division of Fordham University. Master Martin is a son of the Hon. Joseph P. Martin, assistant United States District Attorney, and grandson of Mr. Joseph Martin, Derrychara, Enniskillen (a native of Derrylin), retired official of the U.S. Postal Department. An uncle of the successful student is Mr. Jack Martin, B.A., N.T., Virginia, Co. Cavan. Master Martin is the holder of many awards as an orator, elocutionist, debater and thespian and he received a gold medal for his rendition of “The Burgomaster’s Death.” Assistant District Attorney Joe Martin is now attached to the United States armed forces.

27-6-1942. MEN WHO KEEP SONS AT HOME. Disabled Ex-Soldier’s Daughter’s Relief Claim. The daughter of a now disabled soldier who fought in the Great War and the South African War was refused outdoor relief by Enniskillen Board of Guardians on Tuesday.

The girl, aged 29, looks after her father, but is registered as able and willing to work at the local Labour Exchange. After receiving relief of 5/- weekly for five years, she was offered and accepted work at the Enniskillen Workhouse, where she was engaged at the job for a few weeks. Relieving Officer Cathcart said when the girl started to work he removed her from the relief list, and now that the work finished he brought her ease forward to consider the resumption of the weekly relief. Mr, J, Burns said there was a dearth of domestic servants. Was this girl willing to work? R.O. Cathcart — She is registered for work at the Exchange. Mr. A. Wilson — When she is registered for work it makes it legal for you to give her relief. Mr. W. A. Thornton — You are not hound to.

Mr. McKeown — Her father has served in two wars. Some of those people who are talking have big sons and they won’t send them out to keep up the Empire. This man fought in two wars and in his old age his daughter is watching him and is willing to go out to work when she can get it. Some of the people here won’t send their own sons out to fight for the Empire. Mr. Stewart proposed that relief be not granted to the girl, and Mr. J. Burns seconded. Mr. C. McKeown proposed that relief be restored, and Mr. D. Weir seconded.

For Mr. C. McKeown’s motion there voted: Lord Belmore, Messrs. Weir, Humphreys,  Clarke and McKeown—(5). For Mr. Stewart’s proposal a number of members—all Unionists—voted, and the Chairman (Mr. J. J. Coalter) said that this motion was passed.

THE PAST RECALLED. RECOLLECTIONS OF PETTIGO DISTRICT. In an recent issue of the ‘‘Fermanagh Herald” there was news of my native village school which not only filled me with pride, but helped me to recall some of the happiest memories of my boyhood days, together with many little episodes as a pupil following the opening stages of that school. At a recent concert in Aughnahoo school, that grand old song—“Come to the hedgerows,” was sung by the children —a song which was taught to hundreds of children in the same school by its first Master—Mr. J. T. Lawton, M.A., 56 years ago, and who went to live in Wabana, Newfoundland, after his early retirement.

The reading of the concert report thrilled me as I am sure it thrilled other readers who had the good fortune to study under Mr. Lawton at Aughnahoo. He was a brilliant teacher capable at the time of teaching most subjects now taught only in Colleges and Universities. I wonder how many of my school-mates living to-day recall the happy times experienced during that period, when we used to scurry along the narrow road (now covered with grass) to the shores of Lough Erne during our periods of recreation and indulge in all sorts of fun and frolic. Well I remember how when going to school with turf under our arms and school fees in our pockets we skated and slid on the ice-covered pond at Letter quarry—a place that received the attention of our Master on more than one occasion as it tended sometimes to keep us late from reaching the school.

The concerts organised by the same Master in the school would compare very favourably with the best of our modern concerts, and the excellent performances of the pupils in the production of many sketches which were special features of the programmes, coupled with the magic lantern displays and talks given by the Master himself could not be excelled. He organised these entertainments at his own expense, gave numerous prized and made special presentations to those of us who worked as pupils to secure distinctions.

At those; concerts the school room was thronged, the parents of the children travelling miles at night over country-side and mountain paths, carrying hurricane lamps and lanterns to witness an entertainment that left them spellbound. I could go on writing ad lib., on the humour and beauty of those concerts and particularly on the superb qualities of our old Master.

Aughnahoo school—what memories that old building brings to me! To-day or at least when last I saw its walls bore traces of the bullets of the “Tans” during the siege of Pettigo. The school has been the Alma Mater of many who have attained distinction in the professional and commercial spheres. The school lies in the heart of a most beautiful countryside. It is situated almost on the shores of Lough Erne-that great expanse of water with its sandy beaches and numerous wooded, islands. The Glebe, with its ancient Manse and acres of lawn, adorned with huge trees of sycamore shape and the grey ruins of Castle Termon Magrath tower high over the undergrowth. These are distinctive marks in the landscape. Then .there are the hills of Drumheriff, with their beautiful slopes of green pasture and silvery streams and the meadows, beneath where many of us used to gather the seasonable flowers on our way from school and fill the vases which adorned the mantel pieces in our homes.

Yet we did not in those far-off days appreciate all the natural gifts and beauties of our homeland. As in the case of myself later generations of pupils no doubt carry treasured memories of their time in Aughnahoo school. The exiled Irish and particularly those from rural Ireland all carry pleasant recollections of their carefree days at school and their innocent forms of enjoyment. Modern life unfortunately is devoid of the happy features of everyday life prevalent when myself and my comrades went to that dear old school. I am glad, however, that in many respects those features of modernity have not seriously permeated the life of my native district.

In those good old days to which I refer on Sundays and holydays the Waterfoot, in so far as assemblages were concerned, was a centre somewhat similar to the Bundoran of the present day. Fathers and mothers with their children and crowds of young people could be seen trekking along from the village to spend the afternoon along the sandy shores of Lough Erne, and large numbers basked in the Sun near the old walls or ruins of Castle Termon Magrath. In fact the Waterfoot was a household word in those  days, but I .regret to say that on my last visit some three years ago and on a Sunday afternoon I did not see one person there. Of course times have changed and the people in some respects have also changed. Wake up Pettigo let us see a rebirth of the old ideas and old customs!

Patrick McCaffrey, 3 McNeill Ave., Prestwick, Ayrshire.

27-6-1942. SCHOOLS MEALS SCHEME FOR FERMANAGH. In a letter to Fermanagh Regional Education Committee, on Friday, the Ministry wrote regarding the committee’s decision to inaugurate a scheme for mid-day meals for children, in attendance at public elementary schools, under which children deemed necessitous would receive free meals, and non-necessitous would be required to meet the cost of the food.

The Ministry noted that the standard of necessity had been fixed at 5/6 weekly per head in the rural areas, and 6/- in the urban area. As regards the proposal that the cost of each meal should not exceed 2d, the Ministry was of the opinion that it would not be desirable to limit the cost to that amount, as it was doubtful if a suitable meal could be provided at that price. The Ministry suggested that one of its officers and an inspector should attend a committee meeting for consultation. Mr. Coffey said 2d was the sum left down as the cost of a meal for farm labourers, and surely, therefore it should suffice for children.

The Secretary (Mr. J. J. Maguire) said he had been in touch with practically all the teachers in the county, and one thing all teachers pointed out, was lack of cooking facilities either in the school or near hand. This, they thought, would prevent them from giving anything to children except cocoa, milk, bread, butter, or jam, or any, of those things. There were very few necessitous children. In many cases the teachers put this to the parents, who had said they would prefer to continue to provide the food for the children as at present, rather than pay for a meal.

Mr. G. Elliott— Has this committee approved of putting a scheme into operation? Secretary— They have. Mr. G. Elliott— I think it is a mistake.

Capt. Wray said the resolution was on the books. The 2d as an estimated cost was suggested by the Finance Committee, who thought that perhaps it might cover milk. It was very difficult to put an estimate on it. The Committee’s resolution in March was that it should be left to each individual school to determine the type of meal they thought best suited to their pupils. If 2d did not cover it the committee could make it 2½d. They would be able to judge better when they had practical experience of the working of the scheme.

The Secretary said that matter was put to the teachers, and 97 per cent of the replies he got were in favour of cocoa, milk, or something of that nature, with bread and butter if obtainable, or margarine; cold milk in summer and hot in winter. A lot of schools had schemes running at present. The majority of schools seemed to have some scheme of hot meals for children in winter, and it seemed parents provided their own supplies of cocoa and milk, and had it prepared in school during play hours by the teachers. Parents who could afford the price of milk would prefer to continue to supply their own cocoa and milk rather than pay for the milk in the school.

Capt. Wray asked did the Ministry say the Committee must fix a higher price, or merely suggest it was insufficient? The Secretary said the Ministry thought it would be insufficient. Mr. Elliott asked must they go on with the scheme. The Secretary said there was nothing compulsory about it. Mr, McKeown said the teachers were very sympathetic; the difficulty was securing a place near hand.

27-6-1942. TEMPO VICTUALLER SUMMONED. FALSE REPRESENTATIONS CHARGE. At Lisbellaw Petty Sessions on Friday, before Major Dickie, R.M., Hugh Tunney victualler, Tempo., was charged with having, on 21st March last, at Tempo, obtained rationed foods (11½ lbs. of lard) from William and Carson Armstrong, trading as Armstrong Bros., without a permit from the Ministry of Food; he was further charged with obtaining the lard by false representations. William and Carson Armstrong, trading as Armstrong Bros., were summoned for supplying rationed foods.

William Stewart, an inspector of the Ministry of Food, gave evidence that when he called at Tunney’s shop on 21st March he saw a quantity of lard in the window, which Tunney said he bought from Armstrong Bros. Tunney also told him that he was short of suet, etc., and was giving the lard away with beef to his registered customers. William Armstrong admitted that he sold the lard to Tunney, but on the condition that it would be given back to him. Armstrong said that he understood Tunney had a licence to buy lard, and that he was only obliging him until such time as he (Tunney) got his own supply in. Tunney in a statement said he promised to give the lard back, and that he led them to believe he had a licence to buy. Tunney had a licence to sell but no permit to Acquire. Tunney pleaded that it was “just a bit of a misunderstanding.” Armstrong Bros. representative said that Tunney told him he had a licence to sell the lard and witness said he would lend him this quantity of lard until he got his own supply in. Tunney said he would return it when he got his own supply in. Witness lent the lard to Tunney on that understanding. His Worship said that these regulations must be strictly kept. For obtaining rationed goods by false representations he said that Tunney had caused a lot of trouble, and must pay 40s and 2s costs, this to rule the charge for obtaining rationed goods. “I think,” added his Worship, “that Armstrong Bros, were honestly misled. Therefore, I let them off under the Probation of Offenders Act.”

 

27-6-1942. HELD TO BE DESERTER. BUNDORAN MAN’S CASE. Edward Doherty, stated to be a native of Bundoran, with a. temporary address in Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, appeared an remand before Mr. J. H. Campbell, K.C., R.M., in the City Custody Court on Saturday charged with, being a deserter from the Army. When accused was before the Court last Saturday he alleged he had never been in the Army, that it was a cousin of the same name who had deserted and who had now rejoined the Army and was serving somewhere in the Middle East. The case had been adjourned for defendant to produce his birth certificate. Mr. Walmsley, for the accused, said he had written to Dublin for Doherty’s birth certificate and he had not yet received any reply. District-Inspector Cramsie, produced a number of documents found on the accused. Henry Kerr said at one time he lived at Springtown, County Derry, beside William Doherty, an uncle of defendant, whom accused visited from time to time. He did not believe the accused was ever in the British Army. His Worship held that Doherty was a deserter and ordered him to be handed over to a military escort.

KESH COURT CASES. THREE MONTHS FOR THEFT OF BICYCLE. Kesh Petty Sessions were held on Tuesday, before Major T. W. Dickie, R.M. Patrick McCafferty, Drumshane, Irvinestown, was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment with hard labour for the larceny of a bicycle, value £10, the property of Wm John Mulholland, Derrylougher, Letter.

The R.M. said in the next similar case it would. Be twelve months’ imprisonment. Mr. Jas. Cooper, D.L., Crown Solicitor, prosecuted for the Ministry of Agriculture against John McDonagh, Drumcahey, for as alleged, illegally importing two head of cattle. An order for the forfeiture was in respect of one of the animals.

Patrick. J. Monaghan, Drumskinney, was summonsed for acquiring an excess quantity of flour, namely 62 stones, also for harbouring prohibited goods – 10 stones of sugar.

Defendant was fined £2 in each case.

Robert Moore, Mullaghmore, was summonsed for carrying prohibited goods at Movaran, namely 10 fruit loaves, 52 loaves, and 28 currant loaves. A sentence of two months’ imprisonment was ordered. Notice of appeal was given.

Frederick McCrea, Lisnarick, for making a false statement regarding 801bs, of tea, was fined £2, and was given the benefit of the Probation of Offenders Act for failing to furnish particulars of rationed goods. The tea was forfeited.

27-6-1942. FIVE YEARS FOR STEPHEN HAYES. STATEMENT IN COURT. Stephen Hayes, former Chief of Staff of the I.R.A., who gave himself up to the police last September after he had escaped, wounded, from a house in Rathmines, Dublin, where he said he had been held captive after having been “court-martialled,’’ and sentenced to death by members, of an illegal organisation, was last week end sentenced to five years’ penal servitude by the Special Criminal Court, in Dublin, on a charge of having unlawfully usurped and exercised a function of government. He was described as Chief-of-Staff of the I.R.A. He refused to plead and, when asked if he wished to give .evidence on oath or call witnesses, replied that he did not. Later, when the Court—which had entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf—announced that he had been found guilty of the charge, he said he wished to make a statement, and from a slip of paper read the following:— ‘For over twenty-five years I have been associated with the national movement, and in all that time I have done what I considered my duty, conscientiously and according to my lights, fighting as a soldier always. I can swear before God that I have never been guilty of a treacherous or traitorous act against the Irish Republic. Neither have I committed any crime against the Irish people.’

A letter written by Hayes during his nine months’ interment in Mountjoy Prison was produced as the basis of the charge preferred against him.

1942, Fermanagh in Ulster Final and Glangevlin.

13-6-1942. There was a sequel to the shooting of Constable Thomas J. Forbes, Dungannon, when a claim for £10,000 compensation was brought by the widow Mrs. Evelyn Forbes, Donaghmore Road, Dungannon, at Dungannon Quarter Sessions.

Mr. Chambers said that Constable Forbes was killed by gunmen in Ann St., Dungannon, on Easter Saturday morning, 4th April. The circumstances of his death were that on this morning deceased and three other police were engaged in carrying out a search of premises belonging to James Rafferty, of Ann St. In the course of the search a fracas arose between the police and certain individuals, who had not been traced, and as Constable Forbes wag pursuing some of the wrong doers across Ann Street he was shot and seriously wounded. He lingered for some time and died in Dungannon Hospital on 8th April.

Mr. Chambers said the difficult question which his Honour had to determine was the financial value of the loss of this constable. Deceased was aged 40 and his salary was approximately £6 per week, and he was a young constable who was given the highest testimonials by the District-Inspector. He had a widow and ten children, the eldest of whom was 14. Deceased was exactly the type of young man who was presently required in the R.U.C. and his prospects of promotion to sergeant were excellent, and that would, have brought with it increased pay. Since his death the authorities had allowed the widow a total of £160 pension per annum for herself and children.

He submitted that the very minimum compensation which, he would consider adequate was £6,000.

Sergt, J. H. Gilmer gave evidence of seeing Constable Forbes running across Ann Street in pursuit of some gunmen when there an outbreak of revolver or rifle fire and Constable Forbes fell to the ground. His Honour awarded £5,000 compensation—£2,500 to Mrs. Forbes and £2,500 to the children and allowed costs. He fixed the entire Co. Tyrone as the area of charge.

13-6-1942. RESTRICTIONS REMOVED ON 26-COUNTY BREAD SUPPLIES. As from Tuesday all restrictions on the supply of bread in the Twenty-Six Counties have been removed. Deliveries of flour are also being increased to traders up to the quantity they received last year. This announcement was made on Monday by Mr. Sean Lemass, Minister for Supplies. The public are at liberty, the Minister stated to go to any suppliers they liked and purchase all the bread they wanted. This did not mean, the Minister emphasized, that more bread than was required should be purchased, and. it was still urgently necessary to avoid waste of bread or flour.

NEARLY 50 YEARS BACK. AN ENNISKILLEN TEAM OF THE MIDDLE NINETIES

For nearly fifty years the picture of a well-known Enniskillen soccer team, of the last century hung in the hallway of the late Mr. George Elliott’s house at the Brook, Enniskillen, and many a time the famous old Fermanagh penny-farthing bicyclist would exchange recollections of it with the young goalie of those days, Mr. James Gillin (Skipper); now the well-known rabbit and poultry dealer and vegetable merchant.

When Mr. Elliott, who is also in the picture as a referee, died his wife expressed the wish that on her passing the picture should go to Mr. Gillin. This wish was fulfilled a few days ago, some weeks after Mrs. Elliott’s death, when Captain Jimmy Lowans, R.A.S.C, (an Enniskillener from Queen St., who joined the Army at 16 and has now 23 years’ service) handed over the picture to Mr. Gillin.

Some of the older generation will remember the stalwarts of Enniskillen F.C. Cup team, 1894-95. The goalie was Jimmy Gillin; the two full backs D. O’Connell and J. McGregor. The halves were T. H. Wilson, a former proprietor of McNulty’s pub, the Brook; W. McCoy and F. J. Morris, brother of Albert Morris, who, I believe, was a quartermaster on the Inniskilling Fusiliers. The forwards were J. C. Steele (Capt.), a clerk in the Ulster Bank; W. Morrow, E. Mulligan, who was then proprietor of McLoughlin’s pub., Fairview, later went to America and died .there; H. Reynolds, a brother-in-law of Mr. Tommy Harvey; and ‘Bap’ Henderson, now a retired postmaster living at Dungannon. Reserve was J. Jackson, whose father, an insurance superintendent with the Prudential, lived at Orchard Terrace,

Mr. Elliott, who also appears in the photograph as referee, was a native of Enniskillen and in his early years was a manager of Thos. Plunkett, Ltd. He then went into business for himself  in the Hollow. Like the late Mr. Ritchie, father of the present, editor of the “Fermanagh Times,” he was a leader, in many sporting movements and was a generous supporter of and contributor to several teams. In fact, any young people starting a new team went to one or other of, the pair to head the list of subscriptions. They were always sure of a generous contribution. The football dress of the team is somewhat different from those of the present. Jerseys had not then replaced shirts, and the “shorts’’ were very long, extending below the knee, and some at any rate were buttoned in the style of breeches below the knee. Belts were worn by most of the players, and—an incongruous sight nowadays—moustaches, were common. Eight of the players and the referee had them. Ordinary boots, only some of them studded, was football footwear. Of the entire team, the only one still in Enniskillen is Mr. Gillin.

JUNE 6, 1942. GIRL STEALS TWO BICYCLES. Three Months’ Jail Sentence at Enniskillen. A young Six-County land girl pleaded guilty to three charges of larceny at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday, before Mr. J. C. Austin, R.M. She was Annie O’Brien, whose address was given as Sallysgrove, Florencecourt, and she was charged with (1) stealing a bicycle, the property of John Sherry, Skea, Arney, value £4, on 6th November, 1941; (2) stealing a pair of spectacles in their case, from the house of Mrs. Emily Rea, Carran, Ballygawley, with, whom she had been employed; (3) the larceny of a lady’s cycle, the property of Oliver Gilhooley, Enniskillen, on 9th May. Arising out of the latter case, Mrs.  Georgina Abercrombie, Corryglass, Letterbreen, was charged with aiding and abetting.

Head Constable F. Thornton, prosecuting, said O’Brien went to Ballygawley to work as a Land Army girl and she stole the glasses from her employer. Last November she stole a bicycle in Enniskillen and sold the second, machine she stole on 9th May, giving £1 of the £2 she received, from Mr. McNulty, a cycle agent, to Mrs. Abercrombie.

Sergt. Clarke, Letterbreen, read statements alleged to have been made by the defendants, admitting the offences with which they were now charged.

He told the R.M. that his own opinion was that O’Brien, was a tool in the hands of others. Mrs. O’Brien had called at the barracks and said she would not let her daughter (the defendant) return home. That being so there was no person to look after her. O’Brien said she had no one to look after her, but a friend in Enniskillen. The police, however, refused to consent to her release from the Court to go to this house. His Worship said he was sorry to have to send O’Brien to jail, but in the circumstances he had no option. Mr. W. T. McClintock, B. Agr., informed the Court that the Land Army would not allow O’Brien to return to work under their jurisdiction. O’Brien was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment on each of the three charges, the sentences to run concurrently. Abercrombie, who agreed to return to her husband, was bound over for twelve months.

COTTAGE TENANCY. CATHOLIC OCCUPANT WAS EVICTED. Approval of the granting of the tenancy of a labourer’s cottage at Fartagh to Mr. W. T. Elliott, Whitehill, Springfield, a Protestant, was given by Enniskillen Rural Council on Tuesday. It will be remembered that the house was occupied by Mr. Millar, a Catholic, since 1911 and that on his death his daughter. Miss Mary K. Millar, who lived with him sought the tenancy, but was refused on a party vote. Later the Council took ejectment proceeding against Miss Millar and she was evicted. Mr. Murphy at the Council meeting on Tuesday, remarked, “You can take me as dissenting from that decision. She has been evicted I am opposed to the whole thing.”

 

MAY 30, 1942. THE ULSTER JUNIOR FINAL. Antrim Defeat Fermanagh at Enniskillen

In a game in which Fermanagh failed to show the form that brought them to the final, Antrim won the Ulster Junior Football Championship at Enniskillen on Sunday by 3 goals 10 points to 1 goal 6 points.

It was a rousing game, and Fermanagh struggled very gallantly with an Antrim team that was much faster and was a great deal superior in attack. Fortunately, in Smith, who was seen at his best, and McQuillan, hampered by a stiff ankle, and Johnston, Fermanagh had a great back line, with a sound goalie in F. Murray. These did a great deal to help Fermanagh hold the swift-moving, goal-seeking Antrim lads, whose front line was in devastating form. The swoops of Armstrong, McKay, Donnelly, McCallin and Webb was delightful to watch. Their understanding was complete, and their ball-passing and foot control, as well as hand control, could not be bettered. It will be surprising if Antrim do not go on to win the Irish, championship this year. It is a tribute to Fermanagh’s defence that they held this Antrim line fairly well for most of the game, though, of course, scores came but there was no collapse of the Fermanagh defenders. Right to the end, there were two teams in it, and Antrim had to give of their best to win.

O’Dowd and O’Grady gave sound displays, but the best half was Allen, while McDermott played his best game of the year in centre-field, particularly in the second half when the, defenders began to realize that Durnian was being too closely watched and that McDermott was the man to make use of. Durnian did not shine as in former matches, but that was because Antrim placed two or three players to hold him, and they were given a hot time by the grand Fermanagh mid-fielder. McCaffrey and Clarke showed their best form of the year, and Duffy was a useful player, but the only score getter was An tAthair Dermot Mahon.  Gerry Magee played a. dashing game, but it was his day off for scores. He missed chances innumerable. Courtenay as centre three-quarter was not a patch on his predecessor, Feely, for whose dropping the selection committee will have a lot of explaining to do to Fermanagh supporters.

The Fermanagh attack never developed cohesion. Amongst the lot there was only the one score-getter of whom one might be sure—Mahon. The Antrim defence, of course, was brilliant. Harry Vernon was a great goalie, and McMahon, Gallagher and Leddy was a trio of backs that were sound as rocks in defence. The Antrim men were adepts at minor fouls, many of which, the referee missed. The referee, Alfie Murray, Armagh, was strictly impartial, but he missed a great many minor things which, while not serious in themselves, added up very considerably to Antrim’s advantage.

A few minutes before the end, the game was held, up for a short time while spectators crossed the side-line after an incident in which a Fermanagh spectator struck a linesman. It was an unfortunate incident, because the game had been clean and the players on both sides a sporting lot. So it was too, with the spectators with the exception of two or three at most. It is a pity these few fellows did not realize what serious consequences on public opinion their ignorant partisanship is likely to have. Spectators should control their curiosity on such occasions and remain outside the pitch because their invasion of the pitch out of curiosity gives a very wrong impression to other onlookers, particularly to those who are delighted to see, or to imagine they see trouble at a Gaelic game, and one of such importance.

THE PLAY. Antrim right from the start played like a winning team and it was unfortunate for Fermanagh that Frank Johnston early on, in trying to clear his lines, should have boxed a ball into his own net for a goal. This set-back foreshadowed the end, though Fermanagh fought very gallantly to make up the deficit. It was the failure of the forwards that prevented a levelling up in the early stages. Opportunities went a begging and the forward men struggled futilely with the. rock-like Antrim defence.

McCallin drew first blood for Antrim in an early raid, and after Allen had stopped another invasion, Clarke lobbed to Magee who was beaten for possession. Armstrong shot a rising ball goal wards and it grazed the crossbar for a point, missing a goal by inches. Gallagher kicked to Donnelly, who lobbed in a strong shot, which Murray saved. Play swung round and Clarke led a great attack which finished with a terrific Clarke drive for goals, but Vernon was almost unbeatable. Smith took the ball from Webb’s foot when he was about to shoot for goals from close range.

The game was moving very fast, with Antrim having a slight advantage territorially. Roland was the big man at centre-field, and it was hereabouts that one first began to miss the Feely touch for Fermanagh. Courtenay was very weak. O’Grady kicked forward to Mahon, who missed a shot for goals, and another O’Grady kick forward to centre proved similarly fruitless, the forwards being beaten by the Antrim defence.

Twelve minutes had now gone, with Fermanagh two points down. From O’Grady, Courtenay got possession and missed, and in a number of succeeding attacks Fermanagh, now more in the. picture were similarly unfortunate. Duffy missed twice from 25 yards. From Durnian the ball went to Magee, who created a nice opening and passed to Mahon. The latter put in a stiff drive and Vernon, to save has net, had to punch across the bar for a point. Magee was again in possession and within four yards of goals when he drew to kick, and was shouldered behind, along with the ball, by the Antrim fulls.

Fermanagh were now on top, but chances were being missed as quick as they came. The inevitable happened. Antrim’s turn came. Away went the McKay, Armstrong, McCallin combination, and Joe Donnelly from the wing swung in a heavy lob. Frank Johnston tried to punch clear and put the ball in his own net.

Eighteen minutes from the start Kevin Armstrong increased the Antrim lead by a further point bringing it to four points.

Switching round to attack, Fermanagh went forward; in a clever Clarke, Mahon, Magee movement which ended with Magee punching the-ball into the goalie’s hands.

Courtenay caught from the kick-out and put across to Mahon, who pointed cleverly. Webb pointed for Antrim and McCaffrey replied quickly with a lovely point, kicked from a ground ball for Fermanagh. Only a goal now divided the scores—Johnston’s unfortunate one, but for which it would have been even pegging—but Antrim began a swift advance which McKay finished with a goal. Quickly they returned and Murray saved cleverly, but from thirty yards out Armstrong pointed, making the lead seven points. Campbell, after a fine solo run, was going through when stopped brilliantly by McQuillan. It seemed Campbell had over held and Fermanagh supporters expressed their disappointment when the free was given to Antrim. From, this kick, Durnian cleared in great, style and was loudly cheered. Fermanagh tried again to pierce the Antrim back line, but failed although Mahon, Durnian and Magee were in the attempt, and Antrim, had a piece of bad luck when with the Fermanagh defence beaten, a forward kicked wide. O’Grady and Allen threw back another Antrim raid, but Webb later got through for a point which was offset in a minute by Mahon’s lovely shot across the bar. McCaffrey followed with another minor to make the half-time scores

Antrim—2 goals 5 points. Fermanagh,—5 points.

Fermanagh were first away after, the resumption, but missed, and Donnelly in an Antrim attack pointed. Johnston sent to Durnian, whose beautiful solo run ended with a pass to Courtenay, who missed. McKay pointed for Antrim, and Durnian was going forward for a score when badly fouled. From the free he kicked a point,

Poland in midfield and Armstrong were in brilliant form for Antrim and were keeping the Fermanagh defence hotly engaged. Webb got through for a point before McDermott effected a good clearance and sent Fermanagh forwards to the attack. McMahon, a great back, beat off the raid, but McCaffrey and Clarke were persistent and for some time Fermanagh showed traces of their form. Eventually, Antrim forced the attackers back towards midfield, and it seemed the attack was over when O’Grady got possession of the ball thirty yards out and, with a terrific drive, sent into the net for a Fermanagh goal.

Once more the lead had been reduced to five points, but it was always Antrim that got going when Fermanagh’s chances were brightening. Webb gave to Armstrong, who pointed and the lead was now six points. After a good movement had brought Fermanagh to scoring range, Magee missed twice, and the whole attacking force was in the worst possible shooting form. Antrim seemed infected, for Webb, a sure marksman, missed badly from close in. Durnian kicked out to Courtenay, who missed badly.

Swiftly, Antrim went in to the attack, and only a magnificent McQuillan clearance saved the situation for Fermanagh The ball had struck the crossbar and was falling, amidst three Antrim men when McQuillan threw himself on the ball as it rebounded, rose with it between his legs and forced his way out of the danger zone. Fermanagh forwards were again wide of the mark when a sustained attack provided them with several chances. Clarke had a good try when he kicked a strong ball goal wards, but Vernon cleared confidently. Antrim swung round, and inside a few seconds McKay had a goal through in striking contrast to the Fermanagh attackers’ failures. Again Fermanagh advanced and a miss was registered. Magee got from the kick-out and put in a sharp punched ball, which Vernon saved in great style. Before the end Armstrong pointed again.

Final scores Antrim—3 goals 10 points. Fermanagh—1 goal 6 points.

The teams – Fermanagh — Murray, Johnston, McQuillan, Smith, O’Dowd, O’Grady, Allen, Durnian, McDermott, McCaffrey, Courtenay, Clarke, Duffy, Magee, Mahon.

Antrim — Vernon, Leddy, McMahon, Gallagher, Campbell, Murphy, MctKeown, lienfestv, Poland, McKay, Armstrong, Webb, Donnelly, McAteer, McCallin.

FIXTURES FOR SUNDAY, 31st MAY.

Senior Football League,

Derrylin O’Connells v. Harps—P. Maguire, Lisnaskea v. Teemore — P. Hueston, Newtownbutler.

Junior Football League.

Mulleek v. Devenish (referee by agreement); Derrygonnelly v. Drumavanty, Rev. Fr. Duffy; Ederney v. Tempo, Rev. Fr. Mahon.

All matches on grounds of- first-named clubs at 5 p.m. (Ex. S.T.). Further fixtures in above competitions will be made at a Co, Board meeting.to be held shortly.

CAMOGIE. FERMANAGH COUNTY BOARD.

At a meeting of the County Board held on Sunday, Rev. T. Maguire, P.P., presiding, the following fixtures were made;

31st May—Division I.—Enniskillen v. Cavanacross; referee, Mr. S. Nethercott. Division II.—Cleenish v. Derrylin, referee Mr. M. McBriem, P.E.T.; 4 p.m. (E.S.T.). Matches on grounds of first, mentioned.

7th June—Division I.—Newtownbutler travels to Enniskillen to play the winners. Division II.—If Cleenish wins they travel to play Kinawley; if Derrylin, wins, Kinawley travels to play in Derrylin.

14th June—Fermanagh v. Tyrone, at Enniskillen.

The date of county semi-final will be later announced and also place and date of final into which Towra has got a bye.

All clubs are earnestly requested to carry out their fixtures on the dates appointed so that the competition may be finished before July and a new one started.

Clubs having home matches are hereby reminded of the rules regarding the marking of the playing pitch, etc., which will be strictly enforced this year. J. GALLAGHER, Sec.

JUNE 13, 1942. By EAMON ANDERSON. (CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK) I said in last week’s article that there were a few tyrants shot in Fermanagh in the old days. One of these was a bailiff and grabber named Cowan, who lived in Drumroosk, near Kinawley village. He had evicted a number of tenants and grabbed some of their farms, so both the Protestant and Catholic tenants of this particular estate combined to get arid of him. They gathered around his house one night with guns and fired through the windows at him. He took refuge in the fireplace, of the parlour and from this, vantage point he fired out through the windows at his attackers and is believed to have wounded some and even killed one of them as a man disappeared that time and never was seen or heard of more, but the whole affair was kept very secret and was only talked of in whispers among the old generation. Some of the attackers got a ladder and got up on the roof and fired down the chimney at him and killed him. The house and place where he lived had been grabbed by him from a Protestant farmer whom he had evicted. Some say that the other man who disappeared at the time was really killed by Cowan’s attackers, as they were afraid of him, that he would turn King’s evidence. It. was even said that he was carried up into the Cuilcagh mountains and thrown down into a bottomless hole—just as, the Ribbon men did with Dominick Noone, the informer, in the mountains near Derrygonnelly in 1826. After the lapse of more than a century the whole affair is shrouded in mystery. In North Fermanagh not far from Irvinestown a certain  landlord evicted his tenants wholesale during the Famine years and many of them perished on the roadside of cold and want. One whole family died in this way —out in the snow—father, mother and all the children, except one boy, who eventually reached America and after many years amalgamated a great fortune. He came back to Ireland on holiday and stopped in a hotel in his native place. One day he went to visit the landlord’s castle. He sent in his card and was immediately admitted as a wealthy American. He was shown into the drawing room and entered into conversation with the landlord. After a short while the American tourist pulled a revolver out of his pocket and fired and killed the man who he looked on as the murderer of his father and mother. He waked out, took the train to the nearest port and got safe back to America. On Naan Island in Upper Lough Erne, not far, from Knockninny Rock, is the ruins of an old castle which once belonged to the Maguires. But in the Plantation times the Maguires were dispossessed of it and almost everything else belonging to them. At one time, well over a century ago, this castle was inhabited by a man named Burleigh. The point of Naan Island was called by the old Irish-speaking people of Naan and the surrounding countryside after this individual—by the sinister name of Gub-na-Stiopa (in English)—“The Blackguard Point”—but it is really a much stronger word than “blackguard,’ for Burleigh like Lord Leitrim and too many of the landlords and tyrants of those days imagined that he owned his tenants’ woman’ folk as his tenants’ body and soul, and all the rest of his tenant’ possessions. Perhaps the worst offender in this way was the notorious Lord Leitrim—who for his unspeakable villainies, was shot in Donegal on the 2nd of April, 1878. The South Leitrim part of his estates extended to within less than an hour’s cycle ride of where I live, therefore from the old people of that district I have heard many tales about him. For tyranny, cruelty and pride, there was hardly his equal in all the long records, of human history. Most landlords in Ireland showed some leniency to at least their Protestant tenants, but not so Lord Leitrim, as the following tale will show.

A certain Protestant farmer, a tenant of his near Newtowngore, paid him £40 a year of a rack-rent for 5 cows grass, and in those days it was as hard to make £40 off land as to make £120 now so the poor man and his family were at last reduced to rags, as they could not buy “a stitch for their backs.” Once when he was going to pay his rent to his lordship’s castle at Lough Rynne, in Upper Leitrim, he was so much ashamed to appear in his ragged state that he borrowed an overcoat from his parish minister to cover his rags. He was shown up to the office and paid his half-year’s rent and then Lord Leitrim walked a bit down the avenue with him fingering and admiring the fine velvet coat. Unfortunately the man did not tell him that it was a borrowed one, so Lord Leitrim went back into the office and said “Raise that man’s rent £5 a half year, he has a good coat on his back and seems to be getting prosperous!” On his estates in Donegal some people came to him for the site or a Protestant church. He would only give them a lease for 12 months so that they would have to be coming on their knees to him at the end of every year to have the lease renewed— all to pamper his pride. Another tenant of his in Leitrim broke a lea field and set potatoes in it without getting leave from his lordship. No one could dare break a field or make any changes or improvements in their farm without getting leave from him, but in this case when the man went to him he was away for a few weeks so the farmer said 1 will set the field of potatoes anyway and explain it to him after. So he and his sons put in the whole spring putting, in the field of potatoes with spades and then he went and told his lordship. “Why did you not come and tell me before you broke the field,” he said. “I did come but you were not at home,’’ said the man. But Lord Leitrim compelled him to turn down every sod and level the field and take out every seed potato he had planted in it, an almost impossible task. When that was done it was too late to put in any more crop that year. It did not matter if the man’s family starved if Lord Leitrim’s pride was satisfied. Another man made a long ditch along the roadside in his farm without getting leave to do so. Lord Leitrim passed in his coach every day while the job was being done and never said anything till it was almost finished when he went to the man and said “Who gave you leave to do that job. Why did you dare to start it without consulting me?” The man pretended not to know him. “Oh he said, Lord Leitrim passed in his coach every day and he seemed to approve of it so when it pleases him it is all right.” Lord Leitrim’s pride was satisfied so he left without another word. He had also an estate in Galway on the shores of Lough Corrib and owned the whole town of Cong and the countryside around it. A young woman named Joyce —a school teacher—was going home from school one evening in that place. Lord Leitrim spied her at a distance and followed her and caught up with her in a lonely place. The girl’s shouts and screams brought a young man also named Joyce running from a distance and he gave Lord Leitrim a thrashing that half killed him. The relations of the young man and Miss Joyce were immediately evicted and the young man got ten years penal servitude for the beating of Lord Leitrim. In any other civilised country in the world it would be his lordship who I would get the penal servitude for his criminal attack. Among so-called uncivilised peoples such as the North American Indians and the African Negros such a crime would be punished by instant death under the most fearful tortures. But under the “wise and just’’ laws which prevailed in Ireland at that .time, the lord of the soil owned his tenants, body and soul and could do what he wished on his own estate and was judge and jury and witness all rolled into one.

Miss Joyce went on her knees to the Lord Lieutenant in Dublin to have the unjust sentence on young Joyce revoked. The Lord Lieutenant at first refused, but Miss Joyce then went to his lady and she prevailed on her husband to reprieve young Joyce and set him at liberty. But Lord Leitrim soon had his revenge—even against Queen Victoria’s Viceroy of Ireland. The Lough Corrib district is one of Ireland’s beauty spots and a summer or two later the Lord Lieutenant went down there on holidays. But under threat of instant eviction Lord Leitrim forbade any of his tenants in the town of Cong and district surrounding—hotel keepers, farmers, shopkeepers and all to admit the Lord Lieutenant or supply him with lodging, food or necessaries, so when he went there on holidays he found every door closed against him.

In one case where he had evicted a family from their house and farm, a harsh winter came on  and the family were starving on the roadside. A Protestant clergyman—taking pity on them, began to collect money for them, and went to Lord Leitrim for a contribution: “Sir,” said his lordship, “I would not give you as much as a blanket to cover their bones!”

At last the crimes of this monstrous tyrant could be tolerated no longer in a Christian country. Even if the law winked at his successes and encouraged him there still remained rifles and bullets and trusty men to use them. So on a spring morning in 1878 he was shot dead on the shores of Mulroy Bay in Donegal in spite of the fact that he was travelling under the protection of several car load of police. His slayers were never captured although the whole County Donegal knew who they were.

 

IN MEMORY OF THADY DOLAN. HERO OF THE LAND WAR IN GLANGEVLIN

Glangevlin, you’ve nurtured a hero,

Thady Dolan, who bravely deified,

The landlord and all his cursed minions

That sought, to extinguish our pride;

And bind us with fetters of slavery.

As sons of a down-trodden race,

‘Twas Thady, and Men of his courage,

That saved us from want and disgrace.

 

In the dark days of rack-rent and crow-bar

He rallied the strong, men of Glan,

And outlined for them his decision,

To meet tyrant, force with a “plan.”

In a stronghold by Nature provided

His soldiers he armed and prepared.

To fight bailiffs, and red coats, and peelers

The .might, of oppressors he dared.

 

For long years they sought to dislodge him

But for them he cared not a rap,

Three, hundred bold tenants were ready,

To sentinel the pass thro’the gap.

And when tyrants appeared with their hirelings,

The blast, of the horn sounded clear.

And the “bell” would ring out as a signal

For the army of Glan to appear;

 

Men and women came forth at the summons,

Determined to conquer or die,

Pikes, pitchforks, and scythe blades they carried,

And always the Red Coats did fly,

As rocks from the cliffs fell like hailstones,

Cutting lanes in the ranks of the foe,

And loud cheers of victory re-echoed,

Afar in the valleys below.

 

For eleven long years they battled,

Unconquered they were to the end,

’Neath the tyrant Annesley’s fury

The spirit of Glan would not bend,

In the little green fields ’midst the heather

They toiled, but no rent would they pay

To the robbers who o’er their forefathers

For a century or more had held sway.

God rest you, bold Thady your history

Survives tho’ you sleep ’neath the clay,

With Parnell and Davitt we rank you.

Your memory we reverence to-day.

And regret that you lived not to welcome,

The dawning of freedom and plan

For the glorious future of Eire,

In that stronghold of liberty, Glan.

 

The foregoing lines were suggested to me by Mr. Eamon Anderson’s vivid description of the Land War in Glangevlin.

PADRAIC J. O’ROURKE, Gortnadeary, Kiltyclogher.

 

SOLDIER’S DEATH IN ENNISKILLEN. Lance-Sergt. Charles Henry Bradshaw (37), unmarried, whose home is at Birmingham, was found dead in Enniskillen with a bullet wound in his neck. At an inquest on Thursday, evidence was given that he returned from leave on the morning of the 3rd June and was instructed to rejoin his unit, which had left, the following morning. About 11.30 p.m., Q.Q.M.S. Burchill beard a shot and on entering the guard-room, saw deceased in a sitting position in one of the cells with a rifle between his legs. Blood wag flowing from his neck. Death was instantaneous. A verdict was returned that death was due to shock and haemorrhage following fracture of the skull of a gunshot wound, self-inflicted. The verdict added there was no evidence to establish the mental condition of deceased prior to firing the shot.

BOY DROWNED IN LEITRIM. While bathing in a lake near Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim, last week, James Gordon (16), son of the late Captain Gordon, V.S., Mohill, got into difficulties and was drowned. With a number of other boys he had been attending a picnic.

POPULAR BELLEEK LADY WEDS. The marriage took place with Nuptial Mass at University Church, St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin, between Dr. Anthony Eustace, Assistant Medical Officer of Health for Burnley county borough, only son of Mr. James Eustace and the late Mrs. Eustace, of Dublin, and Miss Evelyn Dick, M Sc., H. Dip. Ed., third daughter of Mr. and Mrs. ,Y. H. Dick, Heath Lodge, Belleek, Co. Fermanagh. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Father O’Brien, D. D. The bride was given away her uncle, Mr. T. Meehan, Monaghan, owning to the illness of her father. The reception was held afterwards by the bride’s mother at the Shelbourne Hotel. Dr. Edward Power was best man, and Miss Gertie Dick was bridesmaid. The guests included Commandant Vivian de Valera.

FLIGHT-LIEUT. MISSING Nephew of Enniskillen Optician.

Flight-Lt. Wilfred Ronald Maitland, second son of Rev, W. Maitland and Mrs. Maitland, the Rectory, Tynan, Co. Armagh, who has been reported missing from air operations, is a nephew of Mr. W. Moore, Enniskillen, the well-known optician, of whose staff Flight-Lt. Maitland was for some time a member. Aged, 22, he was .described as “a navigator of exceptional merit.’ He lived in Enniskillen for eighteen months up till 1940, when he joined the Air Force.

 

SAPPER DROWNED AT DEVENISH. BODY MISSING.  Sapper John Morton, stated to be a native of Manchester, and who had been employed for the past 12 months at Enniskillen, was drowned while bathing near Devenish Island, Lough Erne, on Friday. Deceased had been bathing with two companions when he disappeared            suddenly, and though they repeatedly dived in an effort to locate him, his two friends reluctantly had to give up the attempt Dragging operations are in progress, but so far the body has not been recovered.

 

MINISTRY AND ENNISKILLEN APPOINTMENT. The Ministry of Home Affairs informed Enniskillen Board of Guardians on Tuesday that they were not prepared to reconsider their decision relative to the appointment of Miss Ethel Armstrong to the position of assistant in the Clerk’s office‘s until they had received the information asked for as to the qualifications of the other candidates for the job. The Clerk (Mr. J. Brown) said he had given the Ministry the required information.

 

DERRYGONNELLY M.O. RESIGNS. Dr. Muriel M. Ferguson, medical officer of Derrygonnelly dispensary district, wrote to Enniskillen Board of Guardians on Tuesday (Hon. C. L. Corry, J.P., presiding) resigning her position as from the 1st September. The resignation was accepted, and the Board decided to appoint her successor on the 14th July.

ORANGES TO REPLACE TEA FOR CHILDREN. Oranges will replace tea in the new ration books for children under five years to be issued in Britain on July 27. This is designed to conserve tea supplies.

BALLYSHANNON SOLICITOR BEREAVED. Second Lieutenant Alan F. W. Ramage (19), Royal Artillery, was fatally injured while motor cycling (on duty) near Lame last week. He was the only son of Capt. Ramage, well-known Ballyshannon solicitor and Mrs. Ramage, Laputa, Ballyshannon. District Justice O’Hanrahan, solicitors and Gardaí joined in an expression of sympathy to Capt. Ramage at Ballyshannon Court.

ANCIENT ENNISKILLEN DOCUMENTS. At a cost of £2, old Enniskillen documents of historical interest in connection with the town’s history—and presented some time ago to the Urban Council—have been photographed and the photographs are to be framed and hung in the Council Chambers. One of the documents, the Town Clerk told the Council on Monday, had been the subject of an offer of £100 from a collector. This document is the seal of appointment of the first anti-Irish governor of the town, Gustavus Hamilton. The others are notes or orders written by officers of the British garrison forces, to inferior officers. One is signed “Schomberg,” and they all relate to the period towards the end of the seventeenth century when the Dutch Prince William of Orange and the English King James were fighting on Irish soil for the British Crown.