William Ireland (Jesuit)

William Ireland (c. 1636 – 24 January 1679) was an English Jesuit priest who was executed for treason based on false accusations related to the Popish Plot.

Ireland entered the Society of Jesus and was professed a spiritual coadjutor. He served primarily in England, working undercover ministering to Catholics during a period of intense anti-Catholic sentiment and persecution. He became associated with the Jesuit province of England and served as procurator for the province in London.

He was implicated in the Popish Plot by Titus Oates, who falsely accused him of conspiring to assassinate King Charles II and overthrow the government. Oates's testimony, along with that of William Bedloe, led to Ireland's arrest in October 1678.

Despite maintaining his innocence throughout the trials and offering strong alibis, Ireland was convicted of high treason. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn on January 24, 1679, along with John Grove.

After his death, Ireland was venerated as a martyr by Catholics. He was beatified by Pope Pius XI in 1929. His feast day is celebrated on January 24.