Robert Peel

Peel was Chief Secretary for six years in which time he attempted to maintain the fragile balance of power between the small Protestant ascendency and the growing political demands of Catholics. He attempted not to distinguish between Catholics and Protestants in appointments that were open to both; he opposed the practice of selling public offices and dismissed civil servants involved in any political action. However, he was forced to call upon expansive police powers forming the Peace Preservation Force which would later become the Royal Irish Constabulary. Additionally, Peel opposed all Catholic claims for emancipation thereby earning the nickname 'Orange Peel' by Daniel O'Connell in May 1813.

Ireland | Administrators of Ireland