asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that the premises belonging to the Kilrush Branch of the Irish Transport and General Workers' Union were commandeered by the military in July, 1922, and have since remained in their custody, and that in consequence business in this Branch has to be transacted in the private residence of the Secretary; and whether the Minister will direct that these premises shall be restored to the Kilrush Branch of the I. T. G. W. U. at the earliest possible opportunity; and whether the Minister has received a claim for compensation for such occupation, made on behalf of the Branch, and when such claim will be dealt with.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. [ORAL ANSWERS.] - KILRUSH I. T. & G. W. PREMISES.
The premises were taken over as a military necessity on 31st July, 1922, and are still occupied by troops. I am having an investigation made, and if it is found possible to evacuate the premises they will be handed over to the owner.
No claim has been received on behalf of the Kilrush Branch of the Irish Transport and General Workers' Union in respect of the occupation of the premises, but a claim made on behalf of the owner is being dealt with by the Office of Public-Works.