(An Clár) asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that on July 29th, 1922, National troops took over possession of the premises of the Irish Transport Union, Kilrush, and that they are still in possession of the place; whether a claim for compensation has been received by the Ministry of Finance respecting damage, etc., caused; and whether, in view of the serious inconvenience and loss sustained by the Branch, he will cause damages to be assessed at once and the place handed over to the officials.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - POSSESSION OF KILRUSH PREMISES.
PADRAIG O hOGAIN
I would refer the Deputy to the answer given on the 12th July last by the Minister for Defence to Deputy O'Briain in reply to a similar question. I understand that the premises are still in military occupation. The question of their evacuation is a matter for the Minister for Defence. Any claim for damage as a result of the occupation will be dealt with as soon as possible after evacuation has taken place.
Mr. HOGAN
Is the Minister aware that the Transport Union is paying rent for the hall in question, although the military are in occupation of it?
I am not aware of that, but I will bring the matter to the notice of the Minister for Finance.
Am I to understand from the answer of the Minister that no rent will be paid for such a place during its occupation by the military?
I presume that rent will be paid.
Before its evacuation?
I would not be able to answer now on that point, but I will bring it to the notice of the Minister for Finance.