THE IRISH PROBLEM.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 47, Issue 14449, 25 July 1921, Page 4

THE IRISH PROBLEM.

The cable news to-day concerning Ireland suggests that a settlement will be readied which will be satisfactory to both sides. It is stated that the .Southern Unionists approve of the terms Dc Valera is submitting to the . Hail Eireann, and that Sir James Craig and the Ulster Cabinet regard the general safeguards as adequate. This- being so, wlmt is there to hinder a settlment? It is also stated that Be Valera, early in the conversations, dropped the demand for an Irish Republic, and plain sailing followed, Mr Lloyd George making many concessions. It was evident from the very start that De Valera could not hope to succeed with his Republic project. No part of the Empire would agree to Ireland becoming a Republic. In the circumstances there may be some excuse for Mr Lloyd George- making "many concessions ” if he were desirous of settling a most difficult problem. It, is also stated that the Imperial Parliament will maintain adequate military safeguards; that' the new Irish Parliament will fully control taxation, excise and customs; that the Royal Irish Constabulary will disappear; that the present police will be re-cast; and that powers will be given to raise new territorial forces. Ireland is being treated very liberally, and if a settlement cannot be brought about now, then the whole of the resources of the British Empire must be utilised to keep law and order in Ireland. If the fire-brands of both sides are kept under at the present moment, then the "peace negotiations” will be brought to a successful issue.