asked the Minister for Defence if it is correct to state that he has received repeated applications for Dependent's Allowance on behalf of William Fleming (Coroe, Ballycumber, Offaly), who joined 1st Midland Division at Custume Barracks, Athlone, in October last; and if he can state the reason for the delay in dealing with the claim, or when he will be in a position to make a final assessment and pay all outstanding arrears to his widowed mother, who is entirely dependent upon this man for her support?
[ WRITTEN ANSWERS. ] - DEPENDENTS' ALLOWANCES.
Several applications have been received for Dependent's Allowance in respect of Private Fleming. The case has been under local investigation for some time. The necessary enquiries are being expedited.
asked the Minister for Defence if it is correct to state that repeated applications have been made for dependant's allowance on behalf of P. Lynam (No. 3378), Church Street, Birr, Offaly (now stationed at Fenit Coastguard Station, Co. Kerry), and if he will state when he will be in a position to make a final assessment and pay outstanding arrears?
No applications appear to have been received at G.H.Q. for dependant's allowance in respect of Private Lynam, but on the information given the case is receiving urgent attention.
SEAN O LAIDHIN
asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that no dependant's allowance has been paid to Mrs. Newcombe, Brideswell Street, Athlone, in respect of her son Volunteer William Newcombe, who joined the army on April 4th, 1922, and if the Minister is aware that Mrs. Newcombe's son was her principal support, and prior to enlistment allowed her 25/- per week, that he was wounded on March 6th, 1923, near Glasson, and if the Minister will have the payment of this claim expedited?
Mrs. Newcombe's claim for dependant's allowance was assessed at the rate of 7/- per week and the following amounts have been paid to her:—£5 10s. on 24th February; £5 10s. on 10th March, and £6 9s. on 20th March in settlement of her claim up to the 6th March, on which date, I very much regret to say, her son was killed in action. An allowance will be paid from that date until a Pensions Act provides for the dependants of deceased soldiers.