asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that strong local representations have been made for the release of James Mahon, Clonross, Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath, who was arrested on February 3rd, and is still detained in Dundalk; whether any charge has been, or is to be, preferred against this man, and, if so, what is the nature of the charge; and if he is not charged, whether it is the intention of the Minister to have him released immediately.

I am not aware of the representations of the kind referred to. Mahon was arrested on strong suspicion of being an active Irregular and of being concerned in the burning of Kilmessan Railway Station on the 23rd January last. It is not considered advisable to release him at present.