The “Freeman’s Journal” has expressed strong disapproval towards the “Times” for what it perceives as “uninformed malignity” in advocating strong measures to suppress disorder and disaffection in Ireland. While the “Times” has been critical, it has also accurately reported the recent events in the country, exposing a persistent attempt to revive the old machinery and methods of the United Irish League.
The Irish government’s decision to reduce the strength of the police force by 5,000 men and contemplate a corresponding reduction in resident magistrates has sparked controversy. The “Freeman” sees this as a sarcastic move by the “Times” that upset the United Irish League. The League had been rejoicing at the reduction in the police force and the magistracy, while the situation in Ireland remains tense and troublesome.
The League’s policy of making government impossible to pave the way for Home Rule measures appears to be gaining traction. With a diminished police force and fewer resident magistrates to enforce the law, the League’s directors have become increasingly audacious in their demands and lawless in their language.
Notably, recent statements by judges at the Connaught Winter Assizes and the Munster Winter Assizes reveal an increase in criminal cases related to threatening letters, malicious injury, and incidents of firing into dwellings. In particular, Limerick has seen a rise in the number of serious crimes, including an increase in incendiary fires, cattle maiming, and threatening letters.
The rise in criminal activity has heightened concerns among the English, who view these developments as justifying their call for reducing the police and magistracy strength. Critics argue that such a move would be impractical and unsustainable. Prominent Irish politician John Dillon dismissed the League’s proposals as preposterous and asserted that they would not withstand scrutiny in the House of Commons.
The League advocates for an Irish atmosphere of governance, which would entail decisions being made by Irish representatives accountable to the Irish people. However, critics fear that this approach, dominated by the United Irish League’s views, would alienate those who are not members of the League and may have different perspectives on governing Ireland.
Manchester Courier – Saturday 10 December 1904