ROINN COSANTA. BUREAU OF MILITARY HISTORY, 1913-21 ...

22.generallyagreed that before we could attempt any large scaleattack, it would he necessary to intensify the training 61selected men. The problem facing us was to find a trainingofficer with experience. The Brigade I.0. (Sean Buckley)stated that he had received an offer to serve with the I.R.A.from a man who had served throughout the l9l4-l8 war. SeanBuckley, who had known this man before he left Bandon to servein the British army, was strongly in favour of accepting theoffer. He assured us that the man in question Tom Barryhad helped him in his intelligence duties and he was quitesatisfied with his national background. Although the majorityof the members of the staff were not enthusiastic about theselection, it was decided that Tom Barry should be interviewedby the new Brigade 0/C. (Charlie Hurley) and the Vice 0/C.(Ted O'Sullivan, witness). We proceeded to Cork where weinterviewed Tom Barry at the Camden Hotel, Camden St. We weresatisfied that Barry's offer to serve with the I.R.A. wasgenuine and we reported accordingly to the brigade staff on ourreturn to H.Q. After a lengthy discussion, it was decided toappoint Tom Barry Brigade Training officer.Arrangements were then made to organise a training campin Bandon Battalion area. Similar camps were later organisedin other areas. The camp in Bandon area was established atClonbuig, Kilbrittain, during the first week in September 1920.This camp catered for selected officers from the companies inthe battalion. The camp was attended by about 30 officers aswell as the Brigade 0/C. (Charlie Hurley), Brigade Adjutant(Liam Deasy), and the Q.M. of Bandon Battalion (Tadhg O'SullivanThe lattet was appointed Camp Q.M. and Tom Barry was in chargeof training. ,This camp was carried on for a week and all themen were thensent home with instructions to return in threedays. When the men reported back it was decided to seek an