To ask the Minister for Defence, if he is aware, that on September 24th, 1922, the house of Mr. Joseph Armstrong, of Ardmorney, Ballinagore, Co. Westmeath, was raided by armed men, and goods and chattels taken away, to the value of about £60; further, if this raid was reported at the nearest military barracks—viz., Mullingar, and, if so, what steps were taken to enquire into the matter, and with what result? Further, to ask if the Government contemplate making any provisions whereby persons, who have been looted during the disturbed times we are passing through, may be able to get compensation for their losses, and, if so, what steps should the applicants take?
[WRITTEN REPLIES.] - LOOTING OF WESTMEATH HOUSE.
SEAN O LAIDHIN
This raid was not reported at the military barracks, Mullingar, and, consequently, no enquiries were made at the time it occurred. If the Government contemplates making any provisions whereby persons who have suffered loss by looting may be able to get compensation in respect of their losses, an announcement will be made in due course.