asked the Minister for Home Affairs if it is proposed to compensate Mr. John Conlan, Kilmorane, Darrah, Ennis, in respect of a jennet, his property, seized by National Troops at New Hall, Ennis, in June, 1923, and if, in consideration of the fact that Mr. Conlan is a labourer having no means of support but his wages, he will favourably consider the position with a view to compensating him.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - MILITARY SEIZURES.
asked the Minister for Home Affairs if it is proposed to award compensation to Mr. John Kiloughrey, Ballyea, Tiermaclane, Ennis, in respect of four cows and one donkey, belonging to him, seized in June, 1923, by National Troops, and if, in consideration of the fact that the fences on the farm on which trespass is alleged were all down he will favourably consider the serious loss sustained by Mr. Kiloughrey with a view to compensation.
This reply is intended to cover questions 7, 9, and 19 on to-day's Order Paper. The proceeds of the sale of cattle seized prior to the passing of the Public Safety (Emergency Powers) Act, 1923, when trespassing illegally, are at present in the hands of the Military authorities by whom the seizure was effected. Arrangements are, however, being made under which these monies, together with the relevant papers, will be transferred to my Department, and the question will then be considered of how the monies should be distributed, prior consideration being given to cases where the trespass was accidental, against the will of the owner or otherwise innocent. It cannot, at the moment, be stated whether any ex-gratia grant will be made in the case mentioned.
Can the Minister give any indication as to how these particular people will prove that the trespass was accidental? Will an affidavit be sufficient to prove that the trespass was accidental?
Mr. O'HIGGINS
I could not give any indication of that at the moment. I am sure that if affidavits were accepted they would be forthcoming.