asked the Minister for Finance whether many of the decrees awarded for personal injuries to members of the British forces killed or injured since 11th July, 1921, are not notoriously excessive and indefensible, and whether he will publish a list of all such decrees?
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. - BRITISH FORCES (COMPENSATION CLAIMS).
I am not aware that the decrees awarded in the class of cases mentioned are either excessive or indefensible. These cases are closely investigated by the Ministry of Finance, and where I am satisfied that the injuries were received by a member of the British forces as a result of a breach of the Truce on the Irish side, the onus of meeting the decree falls on the Irish Government.
In regard to the second part of the question, notice of our intention to pay is published in the "Iris Oifigiuil," and details of the cases ready for payment are given. One such case was published in the "Iris Oifigiuil" of the 6th March, 1923, and 4 cases in the issue of the 10th instant. All other cases will be published from time to time according as inquiries have been completed in regard to them.
May I ask, arising out of that answer, whether the total of these claims has yet been ascertained?
The total of the claims, or of the decrees?
The total of the claims, or decrees, in respect of British soldiers?
They are two different questions. The question here is only in regard to the decrees, and the information is published as I have stated.
Is the total of these decrees ascertained yet?
I do not think so.