DISORDERS IN ERIN

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 194, 17 August 1931, Page 1

DISORDERS IN ERIN

Orangemen Demonstrate Against Hibernians. ENGINE DERAILED. United Press Assn.—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. DUBLIN, August 15. It is reported that armed men uprooted a section of the permanent way near Rickhill and forced the driver of a goods train to disconnect the engine, which they sent on to the torn-up section. The engine topplecf over, blocking the line and delaying trains bound for a Hibernian demonstration at Armagh. It is believed that the outrage is in retaliation for Republican terrorism. The nature of these has not been disclosed. Extraordinary scenes occurred at Caledon, in County Tyrone. Hundreds of Orangemen assembled at the Orange Hall and played Orange tunes all night long, while awaiting the departure for Armagh of a party of Hibernians who, with a band, were gathered in a neighbouring hall. The police in the meantime separated the factions. The Hibernians, on the advice of their leaders and clergy, abandoned their visit. Hibernians in Louth, County Monaghan, owing to the fear of reprisals, cancelled their trains to Armagh. Many other trains were held up at various points by depredations on the railway lines, also by roads being blocked by felled trees. Communications, however, were restored in time to enable 12,000 Hibernians, with eight bands, to assemble at Armagh from Belfast, Newry and Tyrone. Tensv? Situation.

Resolutions were passed sympathising with the Pope regarding Fascist oppression, advocating a United Ireland, and condemning Communism. The secretary of the Hibernians congratulated the demonstrators on their moral courage in assembling in spite of the intimidation. He declared that the Hibernians were not associated with the Free State’s troubles. Later numbers of Hibernians entered the Protestant quarters, where they were attacked by the crowd until police intervened and restored order. The situation is tense. Many shops are closed and the excitement continues owing to Mr de Valera visiting Monaghan to address his supporters.