asked the Minister for Defence if he can state the reason for the confiscation of money and list of collections made at Ballingar (Tullamore, Offaly) Chapel Gate, on Sunday, December 17th, 1922, for Dependents of Interned Prisoners; whether it is not correct to state that the collection was publicly announced for a week previous, without any action being taken by National Troops; whether it is correct to state that the collectors were arrested and released within a few days, and if he can state whether or not it is the intention of the Military Authorities to refund the money, and return the lists taken on this date?
[ WRITTEN ANSWERS. ] - COLLECTIONS FOR PRISONERS' DEPENDENTS.
The collection was for the purpose of assisting local Irregulars and the money was, therefore, seized. The collectors were arrested and eventually released. It is not intended to refund the money nor to return any lists taken.